It is with sad hearts that we, the family, announce the passing of Joanne Melanson Nickum Hills of Bathurst. After a brief illness, Joanne passed peacefully in her sleep at the Bathurst Regional Hospital on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at the age of 70.

Born in Bathurst in 1956, Joanne was the daughter of the late Louis and Odille Melanson. She was predeceased by her first husband, Harold Hills, who passed away in 1997; her second husband, Carl Nickum, who passed away in September 2022; and her brother, Louie.

Joanne will be lovingly remembered by her three sons, Robin (Amanda) of Moncton, Craig of Bathurst, and Matthew of Moncton, and her four grandchildren, Caleb, Elijah, Grace, and Alice. She is also survived by her siblings, Yvette (Hubert), Greg (Anne Marie), Sister Patricia, Roger (Flo), Thomas (Barbara), and Juanita, as well as her many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and friends.

The family would like to extend a very special thank you to the staff of Mallais Home Care, especially Sam and Grace, who were such an important part of Mom’s life during her final years. You were Mom’s number one and number two, and we could never thank you enough for all the love, support, patience, and care you gave our mom. You became more than caregivers—you became part of our family, and we will always be grateful for everything you did for her.

Joanne devoted a large part of her life to children and education. She taught Grade 2 at Saint-Thérèse School for 25 years, touching the lives of many children throughout her teaching career. She also spent many years with the Salmon Association, giving her time and helping support something she cared deeply about.

Later in life, Joanne became an important part of St. George’s Anglican Church in Bathurst. Her faith and her church community became a very special part of her life. She participated in ladies’ Bible studies, volunteered her time, helped begin the church’s outreach program, and could often be found helping with yard sales and community events. Her church family and her faith brought her great comfort and joy.

Joanne had many passions, but one of her biggest joys was her crafting—and, of course, her yarn. If Mom had yarn, she was happy. Over the years, she made countless hats, scarves, sweaters, and blankets, many of which can still be found in the homes of family and friends. Her handmade creations were more than just crafts; they were pieces of her love that she gave to the people around her.

Joanne will be remembered as a loving mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, friend, and woman of faith. She gave so much of herself to her family, her church, and her community. Her kindness, her generosity, her sense of humour, and her love of crafting will be missed by everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family will receive relatives and friends at Elhatton’s Funeral Home in Bathurst on Tuesday September 15, 2026, from Elhatton’s Funeral Home at 12 noon till depart for the funeral. The funeral service will be held at St. George’s Anglican Church on King Avenue at 2 p.m.

Donations in Joanne’s memory may be made to St. George’s Anglican Church, the Bathurst Volunteer Center, or a charity of the donor’s choice.

Mom, you were loved more than you ever knew, and you will be missed more than words can say. Your love will remain with us in everything you taught us, everything you gave us, and in all the little pieces of you that you left behind.

Arrangements are in the care of Elhatton’s Funeral Home, Bathurst (www.elhatton.com).