MARGARET HOLT

MRS Mary Margaret Holt, of Highergate Road, Huncoat, died on Thursday, May 17, aged 72.

Mary lived a full, rich and blessed life, always surrounded by her family and friends, with her beloved husband Alec always at her side.

Mary was raised in St Anne’s Parish, Accrington and attended Holy Family Convent School. Her caring nature led her naturally to her chosen career, and in 1967 at the age of 21, she qualified as a nurse.

She married Alec in 1969, the mayoral year of her father Cllr James Madden.

She pursued her nursing career, working in the local hospitals of Accrington Victoria and Blackburn Royal Infirmary, all while raising a young family.

Mary took a short break from nursing to live around the world in Ireland, USA and Spain due to her husband’s work

On returning to the UK, Mary diversified into occupational health and worked as a nurse at large industrial sites for Brooke Bond OXO, Johnson & Johnson and finally John Lewis before retirement.

In retirement, Mary divided her time between her home in the UK and her home in Portugal making many great, life-long friends along the way. She had many interests that included, walking, travel, gardening and socialising with many of her great friends.

Mary’s adventurous plans were to continue with European road trips planned for this summer, but were sadly cut short.

Mary leaves her beloved husband Alec, her daughters Maria, Rachel and Rebecca, grandsons Samuel, Joseph, James and Oscar, sons-in-law Simon and Chris and many close family members, in particular her much loved nieces and nephews.

The funeral will take place on Tuesday, May 29, beginning with Requiem Mass at 10am at St Joseph’s RC Church, Accrington, followed by interment at 11.30am, at Accrington Cemetery, conducted by the minister Father Stamp.

Family flowers only please, donations are requested to Derian House Children’s Hospice.

Funeral director: Peter Regan, Hyndburn Funeral Services, Queens Road, Accrington.