JOAN PAYNE (CLEGHORN)

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JOAN PAYNE (CLEGHORN) July 24, 1934 - March 6, 2011 It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joan Payne (nee Cleghorn). She passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 6, 2011 at the age of 76 with her family by her side. She will be sadly missed by the love of her life, her devoted husband of 55 years, Tom, her children, Wendy (Marc) and Chris (Anita) and her grandchildren, Andrew Pullan and Shannon Pullan, Keith Payne and Caley Payne. She was predeceased by her parents and brother, Gordon. Joan was born in Winnipeg, MB on July 24, 1934 to Dr. I.M. and Jean Cleghorn. She was raised in River Heights and attended Kelvin High School. In 1949, she met the love of her life, Tom. Joan graduated from the Winnipeg General Hospital School of Nursing and worked as a public health nurse after graduation. Joan and Tom married in 1956 and never looked back, making their home and raising their family in St. James. Joan was never one to sit still and was always doing arts and crafts or assisting Tom with one of his woodworking pieces. She was a talented artist and tried everything from painting to ceramics to needlepoint. Her many works displayed around the house are a constant reminder of her presence. She was also a master in making desserts. Her famous fudge, shortbread, matrimonial cake, chocolate cake and apple pie were family favourites. Her favourite spot was the cottage at Sandy Hook. Many happy summers were spent there - swimming, reading, and eating bags and bags of garden fresh peas. Joan constantly bested all those who dared to take her on in a swimming challenge. She always had a special spot in her heart for her dogs. As a child, she loved her two Dalmatians, Salt and Pepper, and later her bulldog, Bozo. Cleo the bulldog joined the family in St. James and was a loyal companion for many years. She loved to read, mostly a detective novel or who-done-it, and instilled that love of reading as well as life long learning in her children and grandchildren. She encouraged and supported her children and grandchildren to be the best they could be, and was a constant champion no matter what. We could do no wrong in her eyes and that constant support drove us to take on challenges that we might not have otherwise. Joan's day would always brighten with a call or visit from one of the grandchildren telling her of the day's adventures. When books became difficult to read, movies and television became a substitute. All in the Family, Monk, Matlock and any movie with Clint Eastwood were Joan's favourites. Joan fought a valiant battle with MS, doing so with courage and dignity to the very end. She met every day with optimism and always greeting everyone with a heartfelt smile. In spite of the disease's wrath, she brought humour and joy to all those around her. She and Dad fought this illness together. The family would like to extend special thanks to the caregivers and companions to Mom over all the years. Words cannot begin to describe your kindness and devotion. You were very near and dear to Joan. Thanks also to Dr. D.L. McTaggart and staff whose exceptional care and bedside manner are second to none. You went above and beyond for the family. Thank you to the emergency services that assisted with Joan through our darkest day. It was done with respect, compassion, and professionalism. A private family service has already taken place. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the MS Society. Rest in Peace Mom. And, don't worry, we'll look after Dad. God Bless.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 12, 2011