Joan Kennaway, acclaimed Northland singer, voice coach, Opera North founder and director of Opera in the Garden, has died.
''Joanie'' to husband Rick and other loved ones, Joan Lillian Kennaway QSM died on Saturday.
''It is a strange morning today as we woke with the realisation that Joanie is not here with us any more,'' her family said.
''This, we all know, is not totally unexpected but it didn't lessen the blow. A much treasured wife, a beloved mother, grandmother and great grandmother is gone.
"Your Joanie, the life force of Opera North, the gentle encouraging, inspirational talent and musical director who gathered you all together and brought the best out of you all, is no longer.''