Virginia Joanne Jeanette Sanford, affectionately known as Joanne, passed away peacefully on December 23, 2024, at the Madison Care Centre.

Born in Vancouver, Joanne attended Gladstone High School before embarking on a remarkable life journey. In 1959, she joined Canadian Pacific Airlines, a career that allowed her to live and work in London, England, where she met Norris Buffett, a builder from Norfolk Island. Their love story spanned continents, culminating in their marriage in Vancouver in October 1963. They settled in Coquitlam, raising three children—Darren, Scott, and Cheryl—before relocating to Norfolk Island in 1972. There, Joanne worked as a radio announcer and embraced life in the South Pacific before eventually returning to Canada with Cheryl and Scott.

As a single mother, Joanne pursued further education, earning a diploma in computer accounting and bookkeeping. She worked for several businesses, including Diamond Steel, Transport Canada, and Stoneman Management, a company owned by her sister.

A founding member of New Life Community Church, Joanne found both faith and companionship. In 1985, she married Claude Sanford, expanding her family to include stepdaughters Susan and Jaquie. Joanne’s passions included classical music, singing, and bowling, activities she cherished with her sister Maxine and her community.

Tragedy struck in 1992 when Joanne’s youngest daughter, Cheryl, passed away in a diving accident. Seeking solace, Joanne and Claude moved to Norfolk Island, where they enjoyed years of retirement before returning to Canada in 2002 for better healthcare. In New Westminster, they spent their later years travelling, hosting gatherings, and deepening their connection with loved ones.

Joanne is survived by her devoted sons, Darren (Rebecca) and Scott (Mark), her stepdaughter, Jaquie (Doug), her beloved grandson, JD, and her cherished sister, Maxine. She was predeceased by her husband Claude, her daughter Cheryl, her stepdaughter Susan, her granddaughter Jenna, and her brothers David and Wayne.

Joanne’s resilience, love of family, and unwavering faith leave an enduring legacy. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Madison Care Centre staff for their care and support. We are also deeply grateful to family and friends for their ongoing kindness and love.

A celebration of Joanne’s life was held on December 28, 2024. In Joanne’s memory, donations to the Alzheimer’s Society of British Columbia are greatly appreciated.