Obituary of Joe Hourihan

It is with profound sadness that the family of James Joseph “Joe” Hourihan announces his peaceful passing on April 17, 2026 at the Saint John Regional Hospital. Joe was born on in Passekeag, NB on October 29, 1936, a son of the late Augustine and Mary “Marie” (Kennedy) Hourihan.

Joe lived a life of ninety years - a life marked by hard work, quiet generosity, and an unshakable faith that touched everyone fortunate enough to know him.

A proud carpenter by trade, Joe built more than structures, he built a legacy. His skilled hands shaped wood with care and precision throughout his working life, and that same love of craftsmanship followed him home, where woodworking remained a cherished hobby. Whether in his garden, which he tended with great devotion, or in his workshop, Joe found peace and purpose in creating and nurturing things with his own hands.

Joe had a rare and beautiful gift: the ability to lift spirits when life felt heavy. He never offered empty words. Instead. With calm certainty and gentle warmth, he would say, “Say a little prayer and you will see – it always works out”. Those who heard those words in their darkest moments know how much they mattered. He was always willing to help others, and his presence alone had a way of making the world feel steadier.

He was so proud of his children and grandchildren, looking forward to their visits and holding the grandchildren. He always enjoyed a cup of tea and a sweet with anyone who came in for a visit and loved playing 45s on Saturday nights with his sister and brother-in-law.

Dad found the evenings long, he made several calls to Catherine to come over to enjoy a tea, a sweet, watch TV, or listen to music.  We so appreciate you doing this for him.  

We appreciate all care and support from the staff at Ambient Care as we were able to keep Dad in his own home for the past 11 months.  He enjoyed their company, friendship and of course their cooking!!! 

Joe is survived by his children: Donna Gilchrist (Jamie) of Norton, NB, Cathy Mahoney (Kenny) of Erb Settlement, NB, Anthony Hourihan (Christine) of Passekeag, NB, Darren Hourihan (Tammy) of Drury’s Cove, NB, Darlene Hourihan of Bloomfield, NB, Tanya O'Donnell (Nick) of Lower Millstream, NB, Krista Harper (Mark) of Stouffville, ON; grandchildren: Connor, Madison, Emma, Braeden, Adam, Kyle, Abby, Declan, Parker, Ayden, Carson; brother Frank Hourihan (Eleanor) of Bloomfield, NB; sister Gertrude Sands of Bloomfield, NB; sister-in-law Catherine Hourihan of Passekeag, NB.

Besides his parents, Joe was predeceased by his beloved wife Barbara; sisters: Mary Walton (Frank), Theresa Tayes (Austin), Cecilia Sands (Al Cox); brothers: John Hourihan (Jean) and William Hourihan; brother-in-law Joe Sands.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Sherwood’s Funeral Home and Life Tribute Centre (506-839-2156), Norton, NB where the visitation will be held Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 3:00 to 7:00pm. The Mass of Christian Burial will take place at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Friday, April 24, 2026 at 11:00am. The interment will follow at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Joe may be made to the Sacred Heart Cemetery, Heart and Stroke Association or the donor’s choice. Personal condolences to the family and memorial donations may be made through SherwoodsFuneralHome.com.