Obituary of Joan Weir Hodgson Q.C.
JOAN WEIR HODGSON Q.C.
(née Morris)
Mom, who lived her life to the fullest, died peacefully at home, on October 13, 2022, with her children by her side.
Born in Winnipeg in 1925, she attended Trinity College at U of T, receiving her BA in 1946 and her LLB in 1948. Mom was called to the Bar in 1949 and was appointed Queen’s Council in 1975. She was justifiably proud of her outstanding accomplishments as a student, and at law school, succeeding in an era where the odds were against women.
Mom and dad married in 1952 and enjoyed a strong and happy partnership until dad’s death in 2011. While raising their family, mom dedicated her numerous talents to various charities. She served on the board of Trinity College Corporation and was active in the Junior League. She spent much time in the field of corrections, working for penal reform for women, the abolition of the death penalty and reform of law for children. She rejoined the work force in 1970 and spent 20 years working for the Legal Aid Society. After her retirement mom made significant contributions working for SPRINT and on the board of Belmont House.
An intelligent and forthright woman, she was never afraid to express her opinions. Her love of literature led her to participate in several book clubs where she thrived in the exchange of ideas and maintained many enduring friendships. From dinner parties and bridge nights at Strathallan and in Algonquin, Mom was admired by many for her style and panache. Her generous spirit, charm and sense of loyalty will stay with all who had the privilege to know her.
Left to celebrate her life are her children, James (Jane Dams), Matthew (Andria Dams) and Barbara (Walter McCormick); her grandchildren, Cait and Hannah Hodgson, Elizabeth Hodgson, Will (Melanie Vetzal), Maggie (Riley Donelson) and Connor McCormick; and her great-granddaughter, Rowan McCormick. Predeceased by her loving husband, John Hodgson.
A service for family and close friends will be held at the Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles – Newbigging Chapel, 1403 Bayview Avenue (south of Davisville) Wednesday, October 26th at 12:00 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the MS Society of Canada. Condolences may be forwarded through www.humphreymiles.com.
© 2022 Humphrey Funeral Home A.W. Miles – Newbigging Chapel Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Questions?
