Joyce was such a significant part of my childhood. I have so many memories of her and in all of them she’s like a shining light: warm, generous, thoughtful and full of mischief and laughter. My first memory of Joyce was her taking me on the train from Radcliffe to Prestwich in the early 70’s. She was working on the geriatric ward at Prestwich hospital at the time, and I'm convinced I remember her in the traditional uniform, with a paper hat, wide elastic belt and a knee length cape. We popped in there to collect her rota or something like that and being about 4 I found it really really scary: old people silent and staring and one man trying to eat peas with a teaspoon. Within seconds Joyce worked her magic, calling out to a few with a bit of banter and the whole room just lifted and came alive. She seemed to do that wherever she went. Rip Joyce x

Karen Walker