Many memories. Forever laughs. The joke at Paul's & Julie's wedding. Harold giving me a copy of the Layman's Parallel Bible. Them making the mistake of helping me with my first game of Scrabble. The only game I ever won! Never again! Sitting in the rocker in Remuera watching the ships on the Auckland harbor. The devastating loss of Ken. Watching grass grow at cricket matches. When Dad died and Michael had been sick, we sold the farm. A lifetime of stuff to sort and sell. They just arrived to pitch in and help. Living Christianity. Overseas I missed the loss of Harold but was privileged to visit Joan in March of this year. She gifted us a beautiful warm blanket that is already keeping us warm as we head into our Canadian winter. Such special people as catalysts for the wonderful family they started. Truly, forever missed.

My first memories of Grandma are sitting on an inbuilt high chair with a table that slid out from her benchtop. It was a unique kind of kitchen, just like my grandma- a unique kind of lady. Over the years she would stay at our house in Australia. She would walk around the block holding hands with Grandad. I loved it- that fact that they were still old romantics. I have many stories- about things like underwear folding, and pillowcases. I will miss you grandma. I miss my family as well, and hope that one day we can have real, genuine conversations about life, about truth, and about Jesus himself. Feel free to contact me everyone.

‘Blue Grandma’ was one of the strongest, smartest, and quickest people I’ve ever known. She always stayed true to her values and never compromised on what she believed in. I’ve always looked up to her and I feel lucky to have had such an inspiring role model in my life. She will be deeply missed, but her life will always be celebrated.

Thank you Joan for you sharing your life and faith with us over so many years. It is hard to sum up 50+ years, but we are so thankful to have known you and been blessed by you and your family, together sharing God's love and grace.

I am thankful for the love Grandma and Grandad showed us grandchildren. Grandma bought me a rocking chair as she was concerned I didn’t have a seat in the lounge room (youngest of 6) this meant so much to me even growing up. I remember her soups and fijoa deserts. Thankfully, Grandma and Grandad came to Australia a lot and knew all of us Julia Hall sons and daughters and took great care to know each of us and then partners. They were full of love and care for each of us. I am so grateful to be blessed with having an awesome Grandma. You will be missed Grandma. With love Esther

Joan McGrail's life was a shining example of her deep faith in Jesus Christ. As our neighbour in Wanganui, Joan's selflessness and kindness had a profound impact on our family. Her remarkable friendship with our mother, Pat Keats, which lasted for over seven decades, was a testament to her unwavering commitment to compassion, warmth, and hospitality. We will always cherish the memories of Joan's kindness, faith, and enduring friendship. Unfortunately we are not able to attend the funeral so our thoughts and prayers will be with you through the day. Grant & Glenda

Aunty Joan and Uncle Harold were part of our family life. As children we had holidays with them. They took us to the Auckland Zoo and numerous factory visit. My brothers loved the visit to MOTAT and I remember watching the movie Born Free with Aunty Joan. The love and attention to detail was to ensure we had a great time. Dad would go to their place in Mana on Saturdays and Aunty Joan always had soup and scones for lunch. They were like parents to my parents. When my youngest brother was born, I stayed with them. They were hard working servants of God. Thank you for your love given freely to me and my family.