It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Joanne Lyras (née Maimonis) on September 24, 2026, at the age of 73.

Born in Vresthena, Sparta, Greece, in 1952, Joanne immigrated to Canada, where she built a beautiful life alongside the love of her life, Eythemios Lyras. Together, they shared 51 wonderful years of marriage filled with love, devotion, and family. Joanne was a devoted mother to her children, predeceased John (Georgina), Mary (Ezio), Costa. She was a cherished and loving Yiayia to her granddaughter, Sofia, whom she adored beyond measure. She was a loving sister to George (Effie) and a proud, doting Thea to their children, Kosta (Jessica) and Ricky. Joanne was also a caring sister-in-law to Eleftherios (Anna), Eleni and the late Nick, and Antonios (Angela). She was a beloved Thea to their children: John (Lisa), Maria (Elias), Stacey (Jim), Mary, Maria (James), and John. She was also a loving Cousin, Thea to her extended family in both Canada and Greece.

Joanne found great joy in helping her family and took immense pride in caring for the laundromat with her husband. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, and baking, and was happiest when caring for those she loved. A loving, generous, caring, and selfless woman, Joanne was truly the embodiment of a salt-of-the-earth person. She always put her family first and went above and beyond for each and every one of them. She was a proud wife, mother, and yiayia who devoted her life to the people she loved most. Though she is no longer with us physically, the love she shared and the lessons she taught will remain in our hearts forever. Her kindness, generosity, strength, and unwavering devotion to her family will continue to live on through all who knew and loved her. Now reunited in paradise with her beloved son, Joanne can rest peacefully, knowing how deeply she was loved and how greatly she will be missed. We will love you forever and always. Αιωνία η μνήμηΟ Θεός να την αναπαύσει.

The family extends a special thank you to the Toronto Emergency Service Team for their care, compassion, and support.

In lieu of flowers, if desired, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society HERE or to any charity of your choice. 

"Our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. "Romans 8:18

Funeral Service Information:

Visitation: 
Thursday October 1, 2026
4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Ward Funeral Home 
2035 Weston Road, Toronto, ON M9N 1X7 

Funeral Service: 
Friday October 2, 2026
11:00 a.m. A
Annunciation of the Virgin Mary 
Greek Orthodox Cathedral
136 Sorauren Ave., Toronto, ON M6R 2E3

Interment to follow:
FInal Resting Place / York Cemetery 
160 Beecroft Road, Toronto, ON M2N 1W7
Section: 36