Joan was born on 27th May 1921 at West Maitland, elder daughter of Thomas and Josephine, and beloved sister of Geoffrey and Dympna.

After attending school at St Mary’s Maitland, Joan entered the community on 19th March 1942, and was professed as Sr M. Bonaventure on 8th December 1943. Sister ministered in Mayfield Newcastle, Camberwell Melbourne, Tamworth, Carina Brisbane, Waratah Newcastle, Sydney and the Solomon Islands.

Joan also served her Dominican Sisters as the first superior of the Solomon Island Mission 1956-1958; as Provincial Councillor 1967-1973; and as Directress of Studies 1969-1973.

Joan was a most talented person, who shared her gifts generously, as scholar, teacher, counsellor, researcher, artist, dressmaker and musician.

We give thanks for her presence among us and ask that God will bring her home to the peace and joy of heaven.

Joan died peacefully at St Joseph’s Home Sandgate, Newcastle 10 August 2009.

 ‘Conformes fiery imaginis Fillii Sui’
Conform me to the image of your Son
 (Joan’s motto)