Condolences to all of Joan's family. I had the good fortune to be one of her cello students when at Onslow College in the 60s and went on to continue playing when studying and working overseas. Joan was a great teacher and very supportive. I hope she also continued playing for many years. Now I watch my granddaughters learn music and think back to my own inspiring teachers. Thank you Joan and now you can put your bow away.

Very sorry to hear of the loss of my aunt Joan. Condolences to my cousins Phillipa, Catherine and Simon and their respective partners and children. I remember Joan as a competent woman, and a great cook when our families would gather at Johnsonville or Lower Hutt. I will watch the live stream of the memorial from Sydney. With love from Madeline Howie, (and husband Alistair Hamilton and son Alexander).

Sorry to hear of Joan’s passing. Condolences to the family. Great to have seen Joan and Phillipa last November. Mark Scanlan

Sorry to hear of the passing of my cousin Joan. We were lucky to spend time with her in September last year. Our prayers and thoughts are with the families and our cousin Geraldine . Peter and Clare Walker

To Joan’s family. I met Joan at Jean Sandel Retirement Village when she came to sit beside me every day at lunch time. Our friendship grew as we found much in common to discuss. Joan joined three of us to play 500 every Thursday afternoon. My daughter, Annette, shared a love of classical music and attended several concerts with Joan. I was sad when it became necessary for Joan to move to a room in the hospital wing. Staff members, or Annette, took me in a wheelchair to visit her daily. We enjoyed some interesting discussions as she held my hand. Loving memories of a good friend. Jean Lewis and daughter Annette

Dear Phillipa and Catherine - It is some years since we had contact but I remember times together with the Howie/Gaines families and read yesterday's notice of your mother's death with sadness. My first contact was at the death of Alma, your grandmother, over 50 years ago. I was impressed by the care given her and feel sure you have inherited a similar caring spirit in first watching over your father, Peter, and now more recently, Joan. I am now in retirement at the Home of Compassion, Island Bay and remember you all with thanksgiving. I regret, Catherine, I did not know Alastair but include him in my prayer that all we have loved in life will, in death, rest in peace.

Thinking back to our fish ' chip and Lions Club evenings we shared with Peter and Joan - very happy times. You will have wonderful and special memories to treasure. Thinking of you all. Helen Armstrong.

Rest in peace Joan. I'm sure that Peter was waiting for you -reunited once more. Your quiet voice quick wit and intelligence plus your readiness to support your fellow directors will live on in our memories of you. Condolences to your family and thanks to the rest home staff for their care. Patrick