Afterglow
I’d like the memory of me
To be a happy one.
I’d like to leave an afterglow
of smiles when life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo
Whispering softly down the ways, 
Of happy times and laughing times
and bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve,
to dry before the sun;
Of happy memories that I leave
When my life is done.

Beresford, NB- It is with great sadness that we, the family, announce the passing of Mrs. Joan Kearnes, wife of the late David Kearnes of Beresford, which occurred on Monday, September 15, 2025, at the Chaleur Regional Hospital, Bathurst at the age of 90.

Born in Campbellton, she was the daughter of the late Ruby (Smith) and Frank Bulter. Joan was the last surviving member of her immediate family.

She is survived by two daughters: Lynn Pelletier (Mario) and Lori Cormier (Mario) both of Beresford; a “special son”: Paul Spinks (Shawna) of Saint John; four grandchildren: Adam Pelletier, Stephanie Good (Craig), Jeremy (Jennie) and Sarah Cormier (Elden); “special granddaughter” Payton; three beloved great-grandchilren: Lexi and Cjay Good, and Brayden Cormier.

Mom is also survived by her faithful fur baby, Poppy.

Mom met the love of her life David, in 1957 while working for Dominion Store and was married in 1958. They shared their lives for 55 years until his passing in 2013. She was an avid quilter and knitter with a passion for reading, gardening, and all things crafting. Her material scraps were not safe, as they always had a purpose in something else.

She retired from Woolco/Walmart in 2000 and kept herself busy and always saying “I don’t know where I found the time to work?”.

Joan loved her family most, each and everyone of us.

A special thank you to the doctors and nurses at the Chaleur Regional Hospital Dialysis unit for their exceptional care given to out mom over the last four years, also to the nursing staff of the palliative care unit; you certainly are special and our family thanks you.

There will be no visitation or funeral service at this time, a celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations in the memory of mom may be made to Charlies Cat Rescue, or a charity of one’s choice.

Funeral arrangements are under the care of Elhatton Funeral Home, Bathurst.