Obituary of Joyce Mae Cochrane-Crawford
With deep love and sorrow, the family of Joyce Mae Cochrane-Crawford announces her peaceful passing on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton, NB, at the age of 88.
Born on a Monday, February 15, 1937, in Minto, NB, Joyce was the beloved daughter of the late Gordon and Ellen Quigley (Barton). Her life was a tapestry of love, creativity, and quiet strength.
Joyce is survived by her devoted son, Brent Cochrane, and his wife, Leah; her treasured grandchildren, Nick (Anna), Abby (Bill), and Ashley (Caleb); and her adored great-grandchildren, Brooklyn and Benjamin Cochrane, and Wren and Rhett McQuade. She also leaves behind her loving siblings: Grace Ann Curran, Patsy Hay, Winston Quigley (Florence), June Mills, and Gordena DeVries (Rob); sisters-in-law Debbie Filmore and Judy Cochrane; as well as her "bonus" children, Jana, Jeremy and Jamie Crawford; her very special great niece, Alison Mills; along with many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and dear friends.
She was predeceased by her first husband, Kenneth Cochrane, and her second husband, Ronald Crawford, both of whom held special places in her heart and shared in different seasons of her life. She was also predeceased by her sister, Daphne (and husband Ian), and brothers-in-law Jerome Curran and Johnny Hay.
Joyce was an extraordinary woman. She was a gifted seamstress whose hands could turn fabric into something magical, a fantastic baker and cook who nourished more than just appetites, and a gardener whose flowers bloomed as brightly as her spirit. Her vegetable gardens were especially legendary, she grew the biggest, freshest produce and took great pride in filling her shelves with rows of pickles and preserves, lovingly made to share with family and friends. Her heart beat especially strong for animals, particularly her beloved feline companions, who brought her comfort and joy over the years.
Joyce loved deeply, lived graciously, and carried a light that continues to shine through those who knew her. Her legacy of kindness, strength, and unconditional love will live on in the hearts of her family and friends.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to Paula and the staff at the North Minto Seniors’ Residence for their excellent care and compassion, and to the incredible team on 4SW at the DECH for their support during Joyce’s final days. A very special thank you to Winston and Florence for their unwavering love, support, and devotion to Joyce, especially in her later years.
For those who wish, donations to the SPCA in Joyce’s memory would be appreciated—an honour befitting her deep love for animals.
A graveside service will be held on Sunday, May 18th at 3:00 PM at the Wallbridge Cemetery (379 Bridge Street, Minto), with a reception to follow at the Minto Seniors’ Hall (11 O’Leary Lane, Minto). All are welcome to come and share in the celebration of a life so beautifully lived.