RANDALL, Joan Carol Randall

It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce the passing of Joan Carol (Gillespie) Randall on 15 May, 2026, at the age of 82.

Joan was born on 28 December, 1943 in Sydney, Nova Scotia to the late Pauline and Fredric Gillespie. Though she eventually settled in Bowmanville, Ontario, Cape Breton always remained close to her heart; in her warmth, her generosity, her storytelling and the way she made everyone feel welcome the moment they walked through her door.

Joan was the beloved wife of Gerard Randall, with whom she shared 64 years of marriage, and devoted mother to Kimberley Ann. She was a cherished grandmother to Alyssa (James) and Gord (Carly), whom she loved beyond measure. Joan was predeceased by her brothers Cyril and Lawrence Gillespie, brother in-laws Henry Desjardins, Richard March, Gordon Bennett and Daniel Randall, and sister-in-law Mary (Randall) Bennett. She will be lovingly missed by her siblings Fred (Marilyn), Elvira Larocque, Marion Desjardins, Lynn (Janet), Michael (Irma), Paula March and John (Lorriane), along with many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and dear friends, whose lives were better for having known her.

Joan dedicated many years of her career as a manufacturing manager for Schneider Canada, shattering the glass ceiling and redefining what the manufacturing sector looked like, before retiring in 2002. Yet, it was her quiet service to others that truly defined her life. A faithful parishioner of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Joan devoted countless hours to charitable and community work through the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. For almost 20 years, she lovingly operated the Bowmanville value store on King Street, where she became a familiar and comforting presence to so many in the community. She also served as a dedicated member and president of the Lakeshore Particular Council, helping guide outreach efforts that supported individuals facing hardship. Joan’s compassion, humility and tireless commitment to helping others touched countless lives throughout Bowmanville and beyond.

In recognition of her lifelong commitment to service, Joan was honoured with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, a distinction awarded to Canadians who have made significant contributions to their community and country.

Joan will be remembered for her kind heart, strong faith, quick smile, and the way she always made room for one more at the table. She believed in helping quietly, loving fiercely and showing up for people when they need it most. Her family was her pride, her community was her purpose and her legacy of compassion will continue in the many lives she touched.

The family would like to thank Dr. Stewart and the Palliative Care Team from Lakeridge Health for their support and compassion, as well as all of the ladies at ParaMed and CBI for taking such good care of Joan.

The family would also like to thank Joan’s sister-in-law and best friend Judy Allen for her love, kindness and support. Joan loved you like a sister.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on 19 May, 2026 at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 127 Liberty St. South in Bowmanville, at 11:00 AM. A reception will follow in the church hall.

For those unable to attend, the service can be viewed live via the following link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vuFEMEU9U0A

In lieu of flowers, donations in Joan’s memory may be made to the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul or a charity of your choosing.