Joan Biscoe, who served for many years on the committee of the JHS, died peacefully at Wellington in Somerset in May 2026 at the age of 99.

           Born in Toronto in 1927, Joan and her mother returned to Cornwall, to Redruth. Joan was to remain in Cornwall for the rest of her life, fighting for Cornish people and Cornish culture. Her interests were wide, including sea angling, singing and travelling. Highly intelligent and articulate, Joan became involved in many organisations, one of which was the John Harris Society.

           And what a difference she made. Highly intelligent and articulate, Joan brought her considerable talents and wisdom to the committee. Displaying seemingly boundless energy, Joan constantly came up with imaginative and thoughtful ways to raise funds and promote the life and work of John Harris.  A gifted reader of poetry, Joan was always willing to read the work of Harris. This included contributing to the BBC Radio 4 programme on John Harris in its Poetry Please series. Following a pasty lunch in Balwest Chapel Hall on a blazing, hot day, the initial recordings were made on Tregonning Hill. However, the sensitive microphones picked up the slight breeze and had to be recorded again in Balwest Chapel car park. Joan was not the slightest bit fazed by this, reading with the same assuredness as she had a short time before.

 Caroline Palmer, who also served on the JHS committee for many years, says of Joan: “She had a great sense of humour and was fun to be with”. In appreciation of many years of outstanding service, Joan was made an Honorary Life Member of the John Harris Society in 2023.

           A celebratory Memorial service for Joan was held on 7^th July at St Stythians Parish Church, at which the JHS was represented. It was a fitting farewell to Joan, who had championed many causes and inspired countless people in her full life. Thank you Joan.

Tony Langford