I was DEVASTATED to hear about the Loss of our Lovely JOAN. In fact, it took me a few days to pluck up the courage to ring Pat back in response to her message.
Joan was a Real Lady and a Genuine person who was our NEXT DOOR Neighbour for more than 47 years. Together with Jim her Late Husband, they were a Formidable team and ran their Amazing shop being a great asset to their community. I was a regular customer especially shopping for Baby Dresses for Louise. Joan on a weekly basis, found me a Gorgeous Dress to purchase and also Outfits for myself sometimes socks for Roger and there was always a Discount!
I know how much Joan and Jim dearly loved each other, for e.g. Joan didn't like Jim going up ladders and could be heard letting her feelings be known to him in no uncertain terms... Roger often came to the rescue offering to help Jim finish a particular job off.
However, I also realise that when Joan lost Jim, it was EXTREMELY difficult for her to accept, (as I can empathise with) but she told me that she had to go on for her Lovely Daughter Pat, whom she idolised and Son-in-Law Phil, who with their family later cared for Joan. She adored her Grandchildren, and as each one was born we were always invited to meet them. I remember distinctly when James was Born, Joan held him up Over our Fence in order for us to see this Beautiful child. Then there were her Great Grandchildren all equally adorable.
Joan was a VERY Pretty lady, who made the World a better place, with her Kindness, Compassion and love for her Family and Love for myself, Roger and Louise and her Local community. Louise and her family send their Sincere Condolences as I do to Pat and her Family.
May God Bless all of you. You must hold dear that Joan will ALWAYS be Part of your lives and her Legacy and that of Jim's will go on forever. Lots of love MARY DOUGLAS XXX
Mary Douglas
22/07/2026