Joan Harrison, publications director for Canadian Hairdresser, passed away on Saturday, October 7, 2017.  An icon in the Canadian beauty industry, she spent most of her life supporting, mentoring and committed to hairdressers.

At the Chatters 2015 Symposium awards gala in Alberta, Harrison was honored with their Lifetime Achievement Award. Upon receiving the award onstage, Harrison said, “A lifetime in this industry is a lifetime for anybody worth living. You make more friends, you know more people and you stay with them all your life.”

An announcement on Canadian Hairdresser’s Facebook page reads: “No words can express our sadness. Following Joan's wishes, there will not be a funeral service, but a celebration of Joan's life will be held at a future date. Thank you all for your thoughts and for sharing your memories of Joan.”

We will continue to share the industry’s memories of Joan Harrison on this page.

Honoring Joan

So often in our pro-beauty industry, a business relationship becomes a personal friendship. I was fortunate to know Joan Harrison in both capacities. Joan had the editorial eye of an eagle, the tenacity of a dog with a bone, the tenderness of a mother lion. Her entrepreneurial spirit never waned. She always had a new idea percolating and was willing to share her thoughts with anyone who would listen. But it was her joyeux de vivre, her love of life itself with all its ups and downs,  that made Joan a truly beautiful person.

Vi Nelson, Vi Nelson and Associates, Inc

“Joan was a serious, savvy business leader in covering and supporting the professional beauty community, and an important part of it.  She was great friend to the hairdresser and the salon craft, and to her media colleagues, too. She was warm and witty, with a spark.  I will miss seeing and speaking with her at all the industry events.”

Michele Musgrove, associate publisher and editorial director, MODERN SALON

 Joan’s generosity and consistent encouragement created a beautiful life moments for all of us who loved her. May our anticipation of Heaven be greater than our grief.

Ann Mincey, former vice president, global communications at REDKEN 5th Avenue NYC/L'Oreal USA

Joan Harrison was a constantly positive and influential presence in the industry for as long as I can remember. She will be missed. RIP Joan.

Neil Ducoff, founder and CEO, Strategies

 Joan distinguished herself as a true advocate of Beauty Professionals throughout North America. Friend to many and respected by all, she will be missed.

Howard Hafetz, Art of Business

 Gutted but I am so thankful for knowing Joan and the wisdom, humor and advice she shared.

Tabatha Coffey, hairstylist and host of Tabatha Takes Over

A woman with a great heart for the hairdresser and tremendous courage. I am very sad.

Mary Atherton, Wella/Coty Professional

Joan was a leader, an icon and a dear friend. When I was a young editor, she was my champion, my mentor, my protector, my inspiration. My heart is broken and the space she leaves can never be filled.

Jayne Morehouse, Jayne & Co