Joan Kay Stratford

Joan was born on Nov. 7, 1931, in Massena to her parents Richard Elliot Fulner and Katherine Florence Fregoe Fulner. She graduated from Canton High School in 1949. She attended A. Barton Hepburn Hospital, where she received her RN in nursing in 1952. She cared for countless patients as a registered nurse at Canton and Potsdam Hospitals as well as working at St. Lawrence University Health Center before bringing her compassion as a social worker for St. Lawrence County. Joan called Canton her home for many years. While living in Canton, Joan and her family were the beloved hosts for the St. Lawrence University, Camp Canaras on Upper Saranac Lake. Joan lived a vibrant and fulfilled life, full of love, laughter and dedication to her family and community.

In retirement, Joan found happiness and friendship as an active member of the Moose Club and the Adult Center in Saranac Lake. She enjoyed days having her lunch group over, doing sudoku, scratch offs and going to dinners with friends while living on Turtle Pond. Joan had a deep love for the Adirondacks and North Country. Her true passion, however, was her family, who were the center of her world. Joan was a kind and caring woman that had a smile that could light up the room. Her love, feistiness and humor with dedication to her family will always be remembered.

Joan is survived by her five children: Edwin (Marsha) Stratford IV, Patricia (Jay) Petrillo, Gregory (Susan) Stratford, Nancy (Douglas) Fairfield and Eleanor (Lori) Stratford. Also, 10 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren, all of whom brought a twinkle to her eye and a smile to her face. She was preceded in death by her former spouse Edwin Holbrook Stratford and longtime companion Robert (Kelly) McGarry.

A celebration of life will be planned at a later time.

Joan’s laughter, kindness and loving spirit will be deeply missed by all who knew her. We will forever cherish the joy she brought into our lives and the wonderful memories we shared.