Obituary of Joan Wesley

My name is Jo Wesley (nee Clarke) of Bobcaygeon, and I passed away peacefully at PRHC due to congestive heart failure on Tuesday, March 3rd, 2026. I decided to write my own obituary because most are written by family and paint someone's life so glowingly that one would think they were some kind of deity. 

I never accomplished anything of note except for giving birth to my wonderful children: the late Brian Wesley, Larry Wesley of Oshawa, and Brenda Perry (Ralph) of Peterborough, and their offspring, made me a Nana, Jordan Perry (Tanya) Ryan Perry (Annie), and Andrew (Holly) and their adorable great-grandchildren who made me a Gigi: Will, Luke, Charlotte, Grayson, Harvey, Clark, James, and Georgia. Mother-in-law of Lee Perry (Paulina).  Sister, Pauline Roswell (Bob), many nieces, nephews, and friends. I am predeceased by my parents, Harry and Tilly, and brothers, Bill, Bob, and Paul Clarke. Beloved wife of 71 years to Morris Wesley is another accomplishment, following my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and being adopted by my wonderful church family.

I also didn't want to put my family in the position of having to come up with fish lies or half-truths, impossible scenarios, or outright honest-to-goodness lies. The truth is, I did my best. Sometimes I succeeded, sometimes I failed, but I tried. I loved people. I didn't always do or say the right thing, and when you come to the end of your life, those are the things you regret, the small, simple things that hurt other people. 

My life was not perfect, and I faced many bumps in the road. I enjoyed life to the fullest. Some parts were harder than others, but I learned something from every bad situation, and I couldn't do any more than that. Just think, I no longer have to worry about global warming, getting more wrinkles, or who's going to win the next election. I know some of you will think it's morbid to write your own obituary, but I think it's great because I get a chance to say thank you to all the people who helped me along the way, those who loved me, assisted me, cared for me, laughed at me, and taught me things so that I could have a wonderful happy life. I was blessed beyond measure by knowing all of you. That is what made my life worthwhile. 

If you think of me, and would like to do something in honour of my memory, do this:

1) Volunteer at a church, school, or library

2) Write a letter to someone and tell them how they have had a positive effect on your life.

3) If you smoke - quit 

4) If you drink and drive, stop.

5) Take a kid out for ice cream. Talk and listen to them about their hopes and dreams. 

6) Forgive someone who doesn't deserve it. 

7) Stop at all lemonade stands run by kids and brag about their product.

8) Make someone smile today. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at Trinity United Church, 42 William St., Bobcaygeon, ON. K0M1A0, on Saturday June 6, 2026 at 11:00 AM, led by Rev. Dr. Bob Root.

Friends may leave condolences or make donations to either your "local food bank" or "Trinity United Church" by visiting www.hendrenfuneralhome.com, or by calling 705-652-3355