Helen Joan Brady

September 5, 1941 - December 26, 2025

With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, and Nana, Helen Joan Brady, at the age of 83. Joan left us suddenly at home, surrounded by the love of her family. She was the cherished wife of her lifelong partner, Micheal Brady.

Born in North Vancouver, BC, during the tumultuous years of World War II, Joan was one of the "Fabulous Five," growing up with her devoted parents, Fred and Betty Stewart, and her beloved siblings. The family later moved to Terrace, BC, where Joan's heart was forever intertwined with the wild beauty of the land. She often reminisced about galloping through the fields with her faithful horse, Ranger. The bond she shared with her siblings was unbreakable, a testament to the deep love that was the foundation of her upbringing. This same sense of connection and devotion shaped the way she loved and nurtured others, particularly as she was embraced into the close-knit Brady family.

Joan was a woman of remarkable intellect and boundless creativity. With an innate gift for listening and offering counsel, she imparted wisdom with unparalleled thoughtfulness. Her academic journey led her to the University of British Columbia, where she pursued her passion for knowledge, ultimately becoming a medical records librarian. She worked with grace and diligence at both Kitimat and Terrace hospitals before joining Dr. Barry Phillips' internal medicine practice, where she made an indelible mark until her well-deserved retirement. Joan's love of words and her keen organizational skills, combined with her rare elegance, made her a beacon of light to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.

A woman of adventure and compassion, Joan was a tireless supporter of her community. She gave selflessly of her time and heart to countless causes, from volunteering with equine therapy to supporting the Pacific Northwest Music Festival. For many years, she served as president of the Terrace Peaks Gymnastics Club, leaving a lasting legacy of leadership and service. Joan also played an instrumental role in the BC Summer and Winter Games, offering her unwavering support, while effortlessly lending her voice as an MC at various events. As she grew older, Joan's warmth and energy radiated at the Happy Gang Senior Centre, where she found immense joy, especially as a member of the Glee Club. In all areas of her life, she inspired those around her, encouraging others to embrace their fullest potential.

Joan had a special way with animals, forging deep connections with them as she created safe havens for their well-being. Her heart overflowed with kindness, and her beloved log home, lovingly built by her husband, became a sanctuary—a place where love and laughter resonated through every beam and corner.

At the core of Joan's being was her family. She was the heartbeat of a close-knit clan, a storyteller, a wise advisor, and a steadfast presence who always knew exactly what was needed, even before it was asked. As a devoted wife to Micheal, a loving mother to Theresa, Sean, and Jennifer, and a cherished Nana to Matthew, Joe, and Abby, her son-in-law, Jay, and all her nieces and nephews, she poured her heart into every relationship. She was fiercely proud of her large family. Joan took immense joy in being a part of their lives, both in times of celebration and sorrow. Joan's love was unwavering, and her pride in her family knew no bounds.

Joan's ability to foster deep connections was unparalleled. Whether gathered with friends on Thursdays to discuss art, life, and their children, or spending countless hours on the phone with loved ones, these moments were her source of true happiness. They brought her a profound sense of fulfillment and strengthened the bonds she cherished.

A lifelong lover of nature, Joan had a unique ability to see beauty in the most subtle of moments. She reveled in the shifting light through the trees, the delicate sparkle of mushrooms after rain, the graceful movement of leaves in the breeze, and the quiet majesty of the mountains. Even in her passing, we find comfort in these gifts of nature, knowing she would want us to see her in the rustle of the wind, the warmth of the sun, and the serene beauty that surrounds us.

Joan's legacy lives on in the art she created, in the memories she left behind, and in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A celebration of Joan's life will be held at her home on June 14, 2025, at 1:30 PM. Address: 195 Old Lakelse Lake Drive, Terrace, BC. Call 250-635-1619 or 780-964-8426 with questions.