Tribute to much love Colne House resident Patricia

Her husband Kevin, three children and eight grandchildren, along with other family members including her sister-in-law Lorraine, became familiar to all the residents and staff.   So it was fitting that following Mrs Johnson’s death after a long battle with dementia, her family celebrated what would have been her 59th birthday with a joyous event at the home in Station Road. On Friday , a large family group, including seven of Mrs Johnson’s grandchildren, joined staff and residents for a buffet tea with her favourite gospel music playing.

Following her diagnosis of dementia, the former Barnardo’s training and development officer had been cared for by her husband until she moved into Colne House in May 2015. Staff at the Kingsley Healthcare run home surprised Mr Johnson by unveiling a bench in the garden, engraved in loving memory of his wife; photographs of her family in front of the bench will also be put up around the home.

Colne House deputy manager Sue Moreby said: “Patricia and her family became a massive part of Colne House. “Her husband Kevin was here every day and all the residents used to love seeing her grandchildren when they visited. The whole family were brilliant in the way they supported all our events.” Mr Johnson, of Roach Vale, Colchester, said the unveiling of the bench had been a “fantastic surprise”. He said the family would always stay in touch with Colne House and its “fantastic team”.

CAPTION: The Johnson family in front of the bench, Kevin in the middle of the back row.