Tributes Flow for 'The Boss' Margaret Fitzpatrick, a Saint Francis Hospice Icon
Heartfelt tributes have been paid to Margaret Fitzpatrick, a woman who devoted more than 36 years of her life to Saint Francis Hospice. Affectionately nicknamed 'The Boss', Margaret was small in stature but possessed a mighty and unforgettable character. She was widely celebrated for her natural warmth, her wonderful sense of humour, and her deep, abiding compassion.
A Legacy of Comfort and Dignity
Margaret brought immense comfort and dignity to countless individuals being cared for on the ward. The support and kindness she offered will forever be cherished by their families and loved ones. Originally hailing from Co Tipperary, Ireland, Margaret moved to Essex in 1960. She remained fiercely proud of her Irish heritage, which shone through in her innate warmth, sharp wit, and friendly nature.
Her remarkable journey with the hospice began even before its doors opened in 1984. At that time, she was a full-time mother to four children. Just three years later, she started working as a domestic on the ward, a place she quickly and fondly came to consider her 'second home'. This personal connection deepened profoundly when her own husband, James, received care at the hospice.
From Staff to Volunteer: A Lifelong Commitment
After an incredible 30 years of dedicated service, Margaret decided to retire. Reflecting on her decades at the hospice, she shared: “I loved helping the people under the care of the hospice and it was lovely to be able to talk to their loved ones. It has always been such a friendly place to work.”
However, retirement did not mean goodbye. Merely a year later, she returned as a volunteer, finding new joy and purpose. She explained her motivation: “By volunteering, I am freeing up the nurses and healthcare assistants so they can spend more time giving people the care they need. The staff and volunteers have become like family to me. I really look forward to my shifts and still enjoy having a chat and banter with the people under the care of the hospice as I’m serving their meals and drinks.”
A Spirit That Lifted Everyone
Margaret had a unique gift for lifting spirits, whether through a kind word, a warm smile, or her gentle, uplifting humour. Remarkably, even into her 90s, she insisted on coming in whenever she was needed, stating: “It does not hurt me to come in. I love being busy and I love being here.”
Her decades of unwavering service were formally recognised on multiple occasions. Notably, she received a 30-year Long Service Award during the hospice’s 33rd birthday celebration in 2017.
Final Farewell and Funeral Arrangements
Margaret Fitzpatrick passed away peacefully at home on February 8 following a short illness. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, fellow volunteers and staff, and by the innumerable people under the care of the hospice and their loved ones whose hearts she touched over more than three decades.
Margaret Fitzpatrick will always be remembered with profound gratitude, admiration, and great affection.
The funeral mass will be held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church in Collier Row at 11.30am on Wednesday, March 11. Everyone is welcome to attend. The cortege will drive past Saint Francis Hospice between 12.45pm and 1pm.
The funeral service will then take place at South Essex Crematorium in Upminster at 1.30pm. The family has requested family flowers only. In accordance with Margaret's wishes, donations can be made to Saint Francis Hospice in her memory.
