Joan Marie (Robinson) Hillier

Joan Hillier

North Sydney

We are heartbroken to announce the peaceful passing of our beloved Mom, Joan Marie Hillier, on Sunday, August 20, 2023, at the Northside General Hospital.

Born on January 16, 1945, Joan was the daughter of the late Fabian and Regis (Marsh) Robinson.  It is said that she was born on a kitchen table by Grandmother Marsh, in a snow storm.

Joan was a fantastic dart player, playing all over the Maritimes as a provincial shooter.  Joan could put her hand to anything, excelling at crocheting and sewing, making clothes for her girls when they were small.  She was a very hard worker, working for many years as a cutter at the fish plant; also working several other jobs.  At the age of 61, after suffering a stroke, she travelled to Alberta to continue work.  She had a quick wit and a great sense of humour.  Joan was known as a “little Spitfire” and for “telling it like it is”. 

Joan fiercely loved and was very proud of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She will be deeply missed by her daughters Sherry Lee (Tom Leblanc), Patricia (Billy Joe Vickers); her son Lenny (Charlene); grandchildren Michael, Billy, Joanie, Jolene, Kevin, Jack, Caitlyn, Leo; great-grandchildren William, Paige, Isabella, Greyson and Zarra. Joan is also survived by her sister Nancy, and her brothers John, Jude (Christine) and Rob (Lucy). 

Besides her parents, Joan was predeceased by the love of her life, Murray Morrison, special grandson Spencer, brother Adrian, two brothers in infancy, sisters-in-law Janie Robinson, as well as Mom’s best friends - Joan, Josie and Leona, all of whom passed away many years ago but were never forgotten as she talked about them often. 

The family wish to thank the Veteran’s Unit staff of Harbor View Hospital, ER staff, Dr. Ignacio and the staff on 5 East of the Northside General Hospital.  Donations in Joan’s memory may be made to the Northside Hospital Foundation Veteran’s Unit. 

A visitation for Joan will be held from 7 – 9 pm, Wednesday, August 23, 2023 at W.J. Dooley Funeral Home, 107 Pleasant Street, North Sydney.  A funeral service will be held at 11:00 am Friday, August 25th, in the Funeral Home Chapel with Michael Connelly officiating.  Burial to follow in Holy Cross Cemetery, North Sydney.  Online condolences can be left for the family by leaving a message on the tribute wall of the obituary at www.wjdooley.com.

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