STODDARD-RHYNO, Joan Carmen -age 99, of Maitland passed away peacefully at home on May 14, 2026. Born in Halifax, on July 15, 1926, was the daughter of the late Dr. Robert H. and Mrs. E. (Guild) Stoddard.

Most of her early schooling was at the Halifax Ladies College.

This was followed by graduation from Dalhousie University where she majored in both English and Biology for a B.A. degree. After working in the Halifax Pathology lab for nearly a year she returned to Dal for a B.Ed. followed by a teaching career in Halifax schools.

At a time when the School Board was considering the presentation of various courses on television Joan gave a series of classes on CBC on the geography of Nova Scotia, After this, for three years, she taught one of three major study classes established in Halifax and then went on to teaching Biology for 16 years at Queen Elizabeth High School.

Besides being an avid reader Joan had many other interests including nature study, music and art. In her early years she studied art with Edith Smith and later graduated with honors from the Teachers' Course at the N.S. College of Art.

All animal life enthralled Joan, but she especially loved cats, dogs and horses. However, she always had a special place in her heart for her first two horses — Hie-Away Pete and Melody's Dark Secret. In her youth she was assistant director of Dick Zwicker's original Halifax Junior Bengal Lancers and, being interested in all forms of equitation, taught dressage for many years.

In 1970 Joan and her husband Roy began the restoration of Spring hurst, a historic home in Maitland, Hants Co., N.S. Many happy hours followed in trying to furnish it as it was would have been in the Victorian era.

Joan was predeceased by her parents and husband.

By her request there will be no visitation or funeral.

Interment will be in Oak Island Cemetery in Maitland and will be under the direction of Ettinger Funeral Home, Shubenacadie on Monday, May 18th at 1pm, Rev. Larry Harrison officiating.

Condolences, words of comfort and memories of Joan may be shared with the family at www.ettingerfuneralhome.com