Obituary of Joanna Andrews-Gillies

Joanna Amanda Andrews-Gillies passed away peacefully on December 11, 2025 at The Orchard View Gardens retirement home in Almonte, Ontario where she was comfortable and well cared for by the great staff.

Joanna was born October 23, 1925 in New Castle Creek, New Brunswick to parents Muriel Watson and Samuel Andrews.

On October 23, 2025 Joanna celebrated her 100th birthday. It was a joyful day with family and friends at The Orchard View Gardens retirement home. Joanna was always positive, happy and possessed a wonderful sense of humor.

Joanna's true passion in life was teaching children. She spent a lifetime educating herself and teaching others. She had many degrees; including masters degrees in mathematics, history and business administration. Joanna earned a BA in phycology and a PhD in Religion. Joanna held an accounting degree and worked as a chartered accountant for many years. In 2017 at the age of 92 she completed an online degree in economics. Joanna led a storied life full of travel and adventures. She spoke multiple languages and spent time overseas working for the Dept of National Defence. During her time in France, she adopted two boys, Richard and Eric.

Joanna's husband of 38 years Robert Gillies passed away July 18th, 2013. Joanna is survived by daughter Joanne Gillies, sister Vivian Helen Macfarlane, Nephew Randy Straker who Joanna mentored and help raise like her own son, Nephew Ellis Andrews and many more extended family members across the country. She will be missed dearly by all.

As per Joannas wishes, her ashes will be laid to rest with her husband at The United Church Cemetery in Carleton Place, Ontario and the family plot at The Hogg funeral home & Cremation Services, Minto, New Brunswick. Details regarding the date and time will be shared with Orchard View Retirement Home as well as both resting locations in the Spring.