COMMUNITY NEWS
A Musical Gift
Ellwood House tenants were thrilled to receive a piano from the church! And it’s not just any piano. It is the piano donated in 2000 in memory of Joan Jackson, a long-time church choir member.
After losing her husband at an early age, Joan took a job in the federal government in order to support her young children. Her love of singing brought her to St. Thomas and a spot, for many years, in the soprano section of the choir. An elegant, stately, quiet woman, Joan always had a smile and hello for all the members of her church family. Later, after purchasing a home in Beacon Hill, complete with a garden of her favourite violets, she continued to drive the longer distance to choir practices and weekly services until the time of her sudden passing.
Joan was present at the outdoor dedication service of Ellwood House, singing a special anthem with the choir following the solo “Bless This House” sung by fellow choir member Jo Tyson. Joan and Jo also performed together with other choir members and friends Pat Thorpe and Phyllis Thompson in the “Tyson Trio,” entertaining at various seniors’ homes in the city, as well as presenting skits and musical numbers at St. Thomas church functions.
Joan would be charmed to know that her piano has found a welcoming home at Ellwood House, where it can be enjoyed by all the residents. So, the next time there is a singalong or someone plays a tune, just know you are keeping her memory
and love of music alive.
Joan would be charmed to know that her piano has found a welcoming home at Ellwood House, where it can be enjoyed by all the residents. So, the next time there is a singalong or someone plays a tune, just know you are keeping her memory
and love of music alive.
In the photo Joan Jackson is second from left in the second row.