Obituary of Joan Mercer

Kathlene Joan (Copp) Mercer, April 2, 1937 - April 11, 2024 passed peacefully away at the age of 97 at Evergreen Home for Special Care, Kentville, surrounded by her family.  Joan was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, Donald Mercer; her parents, Avard and Alma Copp of Halifax; and brothers, Paul, Douglas and Avard Jr.  Left to mourn are her daughters, Christine, Karen, and Anne (Tim); and her beloved grandson; Erik Garf (Anna).

Born in Halifax, Joan met her husband, Don, while he was in law school at Dalhousie in Halifax.  Once he graduated, they moved to Newfoundland where they were married and lived most of their lives. Like Don, Joan believed in giving back to the community and she did this by volunteering.  Her kind and gentle nature put those for whom she volunteered at ease.  She took a genuine interest in people and her smile and laughter were well known. Her volunteering at Kings County Hospital in Kentville was acknowledged by her receipt of Volunteer of the Year.

Joan’s love of animals, particularly dogs, was well known. Together with Don, they created Beothic Kennels and raised and showed Newfoundland dogs.   Joan also operated a boarding kennel and each night she would go out to say goodnight to each and every dog and give them a cookie.  She had a story to tell to each of them and their owners. At any given time, the house was always full of dogs. Over the years, there were Newfs, Dobermans, a Cocker Spaniel, a Beagle, a German Shepherd, Miniature Pinchers, and a Maltese.  There were also cats, horses, guinea pigs and gerbils added to the menagerie for good measure. 

Joan and Don were founding members of the Newfoundland Kennel Club and showed the Newfs and Dobermans regularly. She was a long-time member of the SPCA. Joan wrote a weekly column in the Evening Telegram newspaper in Newfoundland called Kennel Corner where she offered anecdotes and advice to dog owners and animal lovers.

There will be private service for family members only.  Donations are kindly requested to be made to your local SPCA or animal shelter. Arrangements have been entrusted to Serenity Funeral Home, 34 Coldbrook Village Park Dr., Coldbrook, NS, B4R 1B9 (902-679-2822).