Joan Iris Harkins, age 92, originally from Colchester, England and longtime resident of Western Springs & LaGrange; loving mother of Paul Thomas (Laura) Harkins, the late Mark Sheehan, the late Michael Patrick (the late Mary Ellen) Harkins, & Lorraine Ellen (Dan) Kats; proud grandmother of Danielle Marie, Chloe Diana, MJ, & Halie Elise; great-grandmother of Hunter Easton & Oaklee Rae; dear sister of Eric (Jill) Hudson & the late Clifford (the late Ida) Hudson; beloved Aunt of Linda (Steve) Norris; pre-deceased by loving parents Herbert George & Ellen Hudson.

A nurse and midwife in post-war England, Joan traveled to Chicago on a nursing tour, fell in love and never looked back. After raising a family and retiring from nursing her travels took her to Canada, Florida, Texas and Mississippi. A fiercely independent, witty, free spirited, down to earth lady. A daily practitioner of the Catholic faith she taught the family many life lessons. How to love, what to value, the importance of humility, integrity, empathy, compassion and most of all forgiveness.  We will miss her way of looking at the world. She was our Matriarch, Our English Rose,  Our Strength and Stay.

Visitation 4 to 8 p.m. on Monday, June 20th at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55^th St., Countryside. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Joan’s name to Hospice of South Texas (https://hospice-vic.org/) are appreciated. Funeral information: (708) 352-6500