Mary Joan (Joan) Croft

Mary Joan Croft, known to family and friends as Joan, passed away peacefully on September 7, 2025, at Owen Hill Community Care in Barrie, Ontario, following a lengthy illness. I would like to thank the loving and caring team of nurses and PSW at Owen Hill Community Care Centre.

Born in Timmins, Ontario, on May 16, 1937, Joan was the daughter of the late Thomas and Claire Croft and cherished her role as a sister, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.

She is survived by her siblings Elaine Harwood, Marlene Baker, and James Croft. Joan was predeceased by her sisters Frances Coughlin and Ann Dales and many nieces and nephews. She leaves behind her children, Michael Racicot (Paula) and Kim Mugford (the late Gregory), as well as her four grandchildren: Cameron Mugford (Amber), Erin Kazda (Richard), Amanda Miller (Jon), and Shaun Mugford (Keiran). Joan was a proud great-grandmother to ten: Aiden, Avery, Nathaniel, Teagan, Adam, Logan, Sofiya, Dylan, Amelia, and Charlotte. Twice divorced, Joan showed that family doesn’t end with circumstance—she maintained lasting friendships with John Racicot and the late David Stockhausen.

Joan worked as a bookkeeper and industrial accountant before becoming an Inn owner in Maryhill and later, at the age of 61, opening her own seniors’ fitness studio in Innisfil, Ontario. She was admired for her independence, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to her family and friends.

Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will be held in mid-October 2025. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Hospice Simcoe or to a charity of choice.