In Loving Memory of
Thora Joan Corbett
Oct 30 1941 - Oct 31 2024
Obituary of Thora Joan Corbett
Joan Corbett passed peacefully on Thursday October 31, following a brief illness. She was surrounded by her loving son Billy (Dan) and daughter Amanda (Rob). She is survived by her husband Grant, whom she was absolutely devoted to for over 50 years. She is also survived by sisters-in-law Sherrill and Moira as well as many nieces and nephews. Joan was an amazing “Nanny” to her beloved grandchildren Caleigh (Robert), Cameron, Kennedy (Dawson), Ben and Kylie. She will be watching from above as you “forward march” into your futures.Born in Toronto but moved to Hamilton at the age of 5, where she grew up on the Beach Strip. She could talk for hours about her youth in this vibrant community. For the last several years, Joan was an active member of the Tuesday Seniors Euchre and Bingo club at the Beach Rescue Hall. After high school, she attended teachers college and taught primary grades mostly at Fruitland and Mountainview schools. Joan remained in touch with several of her fellow teachers and will be missed at their lunch gatherings.
In the mid 70s, Joan decided to try her hand at business. She started a home party plan and also had a popular flea market booth on Sundays. A good day at the market was always celebrated with Chinese food picked up on the way home. The business outgrew the flea market and she leased a retail store in Battlefield Square, Corbett's Limited Editions. Corbetts became one of the most successful independent collectible stores in Canada. Joan said doing what she loved so much was never like work. She was a wonderful boss, always supportive and encouraging. Corbetts was a happy place, where everyone was treated like family, Joan was thrilled to be a part of keepsakes and collections for so many people.
Joan and her husband Grant spent many winters in sunny Florida at Tree Lakes Resort. She enjoyed not just the weather, but so many wonderful friends she looked forward to seeing again each year. Joan was a joyful person, always smiling and finding the funny side of every situation. She had a gift for giving advice, and guiding those around her to have confidence in themselves. She truly was one of a kind. Her bright light will continue to shine in the hearts of everyone who knew her.
Joan did not want to be contained after she passed away. Her wish is to have a celebration of life where her ashes fly into the wind from the back of a seadoo on Lake Erie, where we made many memories with both family and friends. This gathering will be held in the Summer of 2025, anyone interested in attending is welcome to contact Bill or Amanda to be added to the guest list. In lieu of flowers, just raise a glass for “our Joanie,” an unforgettable classy lady.
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Grant, Billy and Amanda,
I first met your Mom as she was my sister’s Grade 3 teacher. I later reconnected with her and your dad as a colleague and part of a group of teachers at social gatherings during the year. Most recently she organized lunches where we could catch up and reminisce. She was always full of life and made each get together fun. My deepest condolences for your loss. Cherish all of the wonderful memories.
Thinking of you with deepest sympathy.
We were so surprised to hear of Joan’s passing . It will be such a great loss. She was so much fun. Our memories of our times in the swim club are many. …some serious swimming but definitely some serious parties. And Joan was always in the thick of things. Give our best to Grant. Hope to see you in the summer.
Dear Amanda, I taught at Fruitland Public School with your mom many years ago. I still saw her now and again at the store. She was always a delight, such a sunny gal with the most infectious smile and laugh, and an uplifting attitude for any situation at hand. RIP Joan
Grant, Billy and Amanda, words cannot express how very saddened we were to hear of Joan’s passing. We send our heartfelt sympathy to you. She was truly a life long friend from our early teaching years together to our social gatherings throughout the years. May many happy memories be a blessing to you. She was one of a kind.
To the Ewles’ family, my sincere condolences. I grew up on the Beach Strip about 6 houses from Joan. Although we were of different ages, I new the family well. RIP, from Diane
Dear Amanda we are so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. Irene and I always enjoyed her company. Your mother was an amazing woman . RIP Joanie.
Amanda, I was saddened this morning to read of your mums passing. She truly was a very special person. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this very sad time.
Amanda and family. I am deeply saddened to hear of your mom’s passing. She was a terrific lady. Corbetts was my favourite place to shop and Joan’s smiling face was always there to greet you. She will be missed.
Joan was such a special lady, with a contagious smile… I am forever grateful to have known her. Love to those who knew her best, I know this is a very difficult time.