Joan Dale Clayden July 8, 1930 -June 20, 2025
Joan Dale Clayden was born on July 8, 1930 to Frederick Otto Clayden and Anne Elizabeth Dale Clayden. Joan grew up in the beaches area of Toronto’s East End, attending Balmy Beach Public School and Malvern Collegiate. After high school she attended Hamilton Teacher’s College and began her teaching career in a one room schoolhouse in the Hamilton area. Joan later moved to Barrie where she taught at several local schools. For over 20 years she influenced countless young lives, guiding her grade 7 and 8 students with a firm but caring hand.
An avid outdoorsperson, Joan never owned a car. Walking was her main form of transportation throughout her life. She walked to and from school each day.
Winter weekends would find Joan on the ski hills. A familiar face at Snow Valley, Joan found joy in skiing, and the camaraderie of fellow ski enthusiasts. In her retirement she spent cherished time at her condo in Gray Rocks Quebec, often inviting friends to join her for a ski getaway. Her love of Québécois culture led her to learning the language with a group of like-minded Barrie women aptly named Les Girls.
In the summer months Joan spent many hours on the golf course. Joan was a longtime member of the Barrie Country Club, joining when it was located on Sunnidale Road and remaining a member until her death. (She was one of a few golfers to be awarded an Honorary Life Membership for her commitment and voluntarism.) Her competitive spirit and excellent golf skills earned her several Ladies’ Championships, including her last title at the age of 72. A passionate golfer, she loved nothing more than talking about the game and was always happy to offer advice.
Joan was also a talented artist who painted and drew well into her 70s. As part of the Fall Images Tour she sold many of her beautiful watercolours to local residents. A dedicated member of the Barrie Art Club, Joan, welcomed new ideas and was eager to help budding artists.
Joan is survived by her cousin, June Crewson of Guelph, and extended family, Wendy Crewson, Bradley Crewson, Murray Crewson, Bill and Fred Powell. She is predeceased by her brother, John Thomas Clayden, and her cousin, Judy Powell.
Joan will be missed by supportive friends Sandi Porter and Brad Hickling. Special thank you to Mill Creek Care Centre and Royalty Care for their kind support.
A celebration of Joan’s life will be held at a later date.
Online memories and condolences may be forwarded via www.steckleygooderham.com