Joan Edwards was born in Forest Gate, East London on 7 July 1924. She was the youngest of four children, one sister and two brothers, and was a bit of a tomboy as a child and musical, played the piano and sang. After school, she trained as a shorthand-typist and went to work in London.
In 1948 she married Roy and they had three children, Jacqueline, Jane and Martin who were brought up in Ilford in Essex. Holidays abroad started when the children were quite young by train or car to France, Spain and Italy. It was a happy household, family parties were quite the norm, and it was a big house, with a lovely garden.
Joan was always keen on physical exercise and belonged to the Womens League of Health and Beauty for 52 years, attending the Ilford and then the Woodford classes once a week.
In 1989 they moved to a bungalow in Sawbridgeworth. They had many friends and were active in the village enjoying various clubs and socialising. After Roy died in 1997, Joan continued to live there, she joined the U3A and belonged to many clubs. She volunteered at Harlow hospital and made tea for patients in the Williams Day oncology unit every Wednesday morning until 2017.
She was the very heart of our family with nine grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Joan spent her last year in Elm View care home, Bishop’s Stortford, and it was a happy year.
We thank you for your kind comments and support.
Joan's Family have requested family flowers only please. Very many thanks,
In memory of dear Auntie Joan, an inspirational lady who like my mother - and myself - was a keen member of the Women's League of Health and Beauty, started in 1930 with the motto 'Movement is Life', such an important premise on which to build a long and happy life!
Alan and I send our sincere condolences to all her family.
Linda Baverstock
Mrs Linda Baverstock
So sorry for the loss of your wonderful mother
Penny
Ms Penny Cleaner
We have some lovely, happy memories of Joan. She was an amazing lady and we miss her. Sending best wishes to the family.
Mrs Heather Sayers
Jackie, Jane, and Martin, thankyou for such a precious service and time together today to remember your dear mum. Although we didn't see her oftten, we remember her with great affection. She was the last of a very precious generation. With much love to you all.
Robert and Lyria
Mr & Mrs Robert Normington
Fond memories of a beautiful Auntie
from Lynda and family
Mrs Lynda Hatcher
We have great memories of times spent with Joan and many holidays with both of our families, fun weekend trips and numerous house parties. Our kids all grew up together and the Edwards were more like family. We are grateful for such wonderful memories and for having the opportunity to know Joan as well as Roy and the rest of the family. Our condolences go out to Jackie, Jane and Martin and to their families. Joan will be greatly missed and we are sorry we are unable to make the service on Tuesday. With love and best wishes, Jim and Barbara.
Mr James Fegan
Rest in peace, Happy memories of Endsleigh Gardens,
Beryl,Grahame,Karen and Elliott
Mrs Beryl Mizen
Even though we weren’t related Joan and her family were just as close to us as our own family. We spent lots of time with each other and often went on holiday together and had great times.
It’s so sad that Joan passed away but she did have a very great and long life.
Condolences, Michael, Michelle, Jim & Barbara
Mr Michael Fegan
For my lovely Auntie Joan. Many fond memories of happy times and laughter.
Doctor Simon Thorogood
For my dear friend Joan with memories of happy times at Lutons and long friendship
Love from Maggie
Ms Maggie Bright
