Remembering a Long Life of Service

The news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on 8th September 2022 sent a ripple of sadness through our homes. During the official period of national mourning, our residents have taken the opportunity to reflect on her reign, spanning the past 70 years. Many people in the UK had only ever known one monarch, but most of our residents remember her father King George VI and the street parties and excitement when the new young Queen was crowned.

Over the past fortnight, residents and staff have shared their memories and experiences of Queen Elizabeth. Shirley Scott (86) remembers working at Sunblest on Penistone road when the Queen visited Sheffield.

Shirley said:

"Watching her drive past in person is one of my fondest memories. She always looked so lovely and wore beautiful clothes and fantastic hats, of course. I am very sad that she has died and hope that King Charles III will do her proud."

Jean Horton (90) from Northfield Nursing Home had a more recent anecdote to share. Jean sent a homemade card to the Queen on the occasion of her Platinum Jubilee and was delighted to receive a response. The card was personally delivered to Buckingham Palace by Palms Row Director, Nicola Richards, who was invited to attend a garden party at the Palace this May in recognition of her dedication to the social care sector.

Jean said:

"I loved making the card in the Queen's honour and was overwhelmed to receive a personal reply from the Queen herself. I was deeply saddened to hear that the Queen had passed away. She was a fantastic monarch and a lovely lady."

Jean has since handmade a sympathy card which has been sent to the new King.

Residents and staff came together on Monday to watch the funeral service. We shared a buffet lunch and toasted the Queen, feeling grateful for her long life dedicated to serving the people of the United Kingdom. Our thoughts are now with King Charles III, as he mourns his mother and steps into a new era.