It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Joan Francis Mary Legris-Daley at Renfrew Victoria Hospital on Saturday, March 28, 2026, at the age of 78. Living with diabetes for over 60 years, Joan faced many health and mobility challenges throughout her life. She met each one with remarkable courage and resilience, fighting bravely until the very end. She often expressed that she still had “so much to live for,” a reflection of her enduring spirit.
Joan approached every struggle with strength, dignity, and at times, a touch of humour. She will be remembered by all who knew her as an exceptionally selfless woman—one who consistently placed the needs of others before her own and took great care to ensure that those around her were always supported.
Joan was the beloved daughter of the late Frances (née Utronkie) and M.J. Legris, and the cherished sister of the late Gary Legris (Debbie). She was the loving partner of Frank Belanger for 43 years and a devoted mother to Joel (Tammy), Sarah (Paul Hackbarth), and Jessica Belanger (Anthony St. George).
Her most treasured role in life was that of “Nanny” to her grandchildren Tyler (Danielle), Theresa (Justin Villneff), Jessica Hackbarth, and Frances St. George, and to her great-grandchildren Phillip, Charlie, Rayla, Sadie, and Ezren.
Joan Daley will be fondly remembered by her many cousins and dear friends, as well as by her former colleagues at ARC Industries/Community Living and Renfrew Collegiate Institute, where she dedicated many years as a highly respected and well-loved Adult Literacy and Special Education teacher. Among her many simple pleasures, Joan had a special fondness for coffee, a ritual she cherished and often enjoyed in the company of those she loved. She held a deep and abiding faith in God, a gift passed down from her mother, which she in turn shared with her children and grandchildren.
The family wishes to extend their sincere gratitude to the nurses and physicians at RVH for the compassionate and attentive care provided to Joan throughout her many health challenges in recent years, with special thanks to Dr. Arcand and Dr. De Jesus.
Visitation will be held at the Goulet Funeral Home, 310 Argyle St., S Renfrew on Sunday April 5, 2026 from 2-4, 6-8 pm and after 9am on Monday. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Our Lady of Fatima Church on Monday, April 6, 2026 at 10:30 am with reception to follow in the Parish Hall. Spring interment Most Precious Blood Cemetery, Calabogie.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Joan’s memory may be made to the Renfrew Victoria Hospital Foundation or the University of Ottawa Heart Institute, in grateful recognition of the exceptional care and compassion shown by their dedicated staff during her final days.
