When I first met Joan we were both being interviewed for a job at a Romanian Op Shop in Ealing in 2005. What first impressed me about Joan was her warmth and smile. After I told her my name she responded with a little chuckle and said I won’t forget that as I have a daughter called Gina. We both got jobs at the Op Shop and we had so much fun chatting and playing around as we worked. When the Op Shop closed I got a job as a podiatrist receptionist and shoe salesperson with Jo in West Ealing. When more days became available I recommended Joan and again we worked together for a couple of weeks and she took my role when I left to continue my travels. We would often go to the local pub after work for a small drink and more chats. We continued to catch up until I returned home to Australia. We caught up again in 2011 on a quick visit I had to London and in 2018 I was fortunate to visit with Joan in Harwich where I got to meet David and Sharron. Joan was very happy and delightful as we worked together in her garden. Over the years we would chat on the phone and Joan sent me lots of thoughtful gifts. Although I am many miles away I acutely feel the loss of Joan, her free spirit, her youthful perspective of life, the love for her family and her love of all animals, especially dogs, and she would always ask about our sheep, Zimb and our pet ducks. Although we feel sad l have wonderful memories of the many fun times we had.

Lots of love, Gina and Robert