Joan Vernice Martell

It is with great sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Joan Martell (O’Brien) on July 25, 2022 at the age of 70. Joan was ‘Number 11’ of the nineteen children born to Howard and Veronica O’Brien (Wludyka). Loving wife to David for 48 years, Joan is also survived by her daughter, Corrie (Stefan Gass), son John (Jamey) and grandchildren Harmony and Oliver Gass, Aidan, Senna and Ayla Martell. Joan also leaves behind her eighteen brothers and sisters along with countless sister and brother-in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. 

Originally from Mira Road, Joan spent most of her childhood years on Beacon Street in Sydney.  Once married, she and David spent some time in Western Canada before settling in Coxheath, Nova Scotia. Joan’s life centered around her family. From championing the development of the Coxheath Recreation Park, orchestrating countless extended family gatherings and meals, to hosting visitors at their home away from home in Cocoa Beach, Florida, to spend time with Joni was to feel her love. She exuded warmth, compassion, and empathy and will be missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing her.

Joan had a ‘knack’ for telling stories. There will be no service; but if you have a story or memory of Joan that you would like to share with her family, please send along to joanmartell.memories@gmail.com. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Mental Health Association of Nova Scotia (www.mentalhealthns.ca).