Joan Colley

Obituary

Colley, Joan (nee Ort) passed away peacefully at the Southampton Care Centre, on Thursday Nov 27, 2025 at the age of 87. Beloved wife to the late John Colley. Dear mother to Stephanie (Gord) Shular and Trevor (Sharon) Rhodes. Proud and loving grandmother of T.J., Rachel and Doug Gillespie.

Survived by her siblings, Patricia Peever, Elinor (Jack) Randall and Les (Carolyn) Ort.

Nieces and nephews include Tobin, Shelley, Allison, Beth, Darlene, Pam, Nancy, Julie, Sandra and Brenda and all their families.

Predeceased by her parents Clarence and Emily Ort.

Joan will be fondly remembered by all her family and dear friends, including Jack Gillespie, Allan Peever, Liz Ehnes, Jeremy Fox, Dianne Mills, and Joanie, Kay, Debra and Emily from SCC.

Joan was a loving, kind woman with a big smile, and loving heart. She adored all children, especially her grandchildren which she spoiled every chance she got.

She became an Early Childhood Educator, with a dream of owning her own daycare, which came true with Hug-A-Day Care in Port Elgin. She formed many lasting memories and relationships with her staff and students.

She was also known as The Costume Lady, with a garage full of mostly handsewn costumes for rent. She taught Sunday School, was an incredible artist, knitter, seamstress and baker. She loved reading books and solving crossword puzzles.

She was a tomboy growing up. A mischievous rebel who teased the boys by hiding snakes in their lockers and getting her little brother to do stuff that usually ended up with her cleaning out the outhouse as punishment for her shenanigans.

She took secretarial in school which gave her the most beautiful writing ability and penmanship.  We all looked to her for help editing our essays in school.

She was so proud of the accomplishments her son and daughter made. She always took the opportunity to brag about them. She married the most loyal, amazing man who became Papa John or “Santa” to all who knew and loved him.

Her life was riddled with health issues, but she always came out stronger and more resilient. She was stubborn and feisty, even in the last few days of her life.

Her favourite children’s book was Love you Forever by Robert Munsch. She read that to all her grandkids and always sang the chorus. Her daughter still signs her letters, “Forever & Always” in memory of those moments. She will be greatly missed but will remain in all our hearts, Forever & Always.

A Celebration of Life for family and friends, together with a tree planting ceremony, will be held in the Spring.

If desired, donations in her name are appreciated to the Southampton Art School or the Southampton Care Centre Residents Council.