Mary Jean Beaufoy (17 Nov 1923 - 16 Sep 2019)

In loving memory of Mary Jean Beaufoy who passed away peacefully at Sandicare Court Care Centre, a residential care home in Nottinghamshire where she spent the last four years of her life after succumbing to vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s on 16 September 2019 at the age of 95.

Mary was born in Atcham, Shropshire on 17 November 1923, the third of 6 children. She grew up in Shrewsbury and decided at a relatively young age that she wanted to be a nurse; however she realised quite quickly that it wasn’t for her. During World War II she worked in the Spitfire and munitions factories in Birmingham, proud to do her bit like everyone else.

She married John (Jack) Beaufoy and moved to Nottingham where she brought up their three children. Her marriage to Jack was not easy at times; however they were together until his sudden passing in 1984.

Mary joined the Civil Service in the 60’s, working there until her retirement at the age of 65. Her life of public service continued after retirement when she joined the WRVS, working voluntarily at the Queens Medical Centre in Nottingham until illness forced her final retirement at the age of 89.

Mary enjoyed her work – former colleagues always remembered her as happy and cheerful. Mary liked to travel – she regularly travelled abroad and loved flying. She enjoyed her garden, particularly roses – Blue Moon was her favourite. She also loved music, and was fond of telling us how she used to sing in a dance band during the war. But more than anything else Mary loved her family whom she supported throughout her life with unstinting love, generosity, kindness, understanding and empathy.

Mary is survived by her children Gillian, Patricia and John, Son-in-laws David and Andrew, five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, sisters Gwen Pascal, Marlene Rogers and sister-in-law Anne Harris. She was preceded by husband Jack, parents Charles and Gertrude (Doll), sister Dorothy and brothers Edward (Tommy) and Ernest.

The funeral will be held at St. Giles Church, Sandiacre, Nottingham NG10 5EE on Tuesday 1st October at 12.15, followed by interment at Long Eaton Cemetery.

Donations in lieu of flowers to Dementia UK and Sandiacre Court Care Centre.