Tribute to "remarkable" NHS worker whose life was service and love

Date published: 10 September 2024

The family of Lilian Fairhurst, a beloved and highly respected NHS worker, have paid tribute to her following her passing on Tuesday 27 August 2024, at the age of 81. Described as "remarkable" by those who knew her, Lilian was cherished both personally and professionally.

Known for her tireless dedication to the NHS, her boundless energy, and her warmth, Lilian leaves behind an indelible legacy both within her family and in the hospitals where she spent over six decades of her life.

At just 18, Lilian began her training, embarking on what would become a remarkable 62-year career with the NHS.

She worked in Leigh Hospital and Birch Hill Hospital before spending over 25 years working night shifts at Rochdale Infirmary, where she became a familiar and beloved face.

Her career didn’t stop there, as she continued in outpatients at Rochdale Infirmary and also supported Fairfield and Oldham hospitals when the trusts merged.

Even after losing her husband David at the young age of 50, Lilian soldiered on, working two jobs, including shifts at Highfield Hospital, to support her youngest son, Paul, while her older sons, David and Ian, had already left home.

Her dedication to the NHS was nothing short of extraordinary. Lilian retired only one year ago at the age of 80, having rarely taken time off.

Lilian’s devotion was recognised when she was selected to attend a royal garden party in honour of her long service to the NHS.

However, in a turn of events that perfectly captured her good-natured spirit, the invitation was misplaced at the hospital reception. By the time Lilian was made aware of it, the deadline had passed. Despite the disappointment, she took it in stride, as she did so many things in life.

Her work went beyond the hospital walls. Lilian volunteered at a local hospice and spent years helping at St. Vincent’s School, where she chaperoned children on their annual trips to Scarborough. Her involvement in the community and her kindness towards everyone she encountered made her a cherished figure.

Lilian’s family will remember her as a resilient, selfless mother to three sons: David (60), Ian (56), and Paul (45), and a proud grandmother.

They fondly recall her bubbly personality, sense of humour, and the songs she would write for friends and family, always filled with wit and warmth.

Whether it was her storytelling at work or the fun she brought to life’s moments, Lilian had a way of lighting up every room she entered.

Her friends and colleagues in the NHS speak of her not only as a trusted staff nurse but as a mentor to many young nurses and doctors.

She was known for her calm approach and, above all, her ability to see the best in people, even in the most trying of circumstances.

One story, shared by her son Paul Fairhurst, was a time when a man walked into A&E with a sawn-off shotgun.

His mum’s response, he says, was nothing short of remarkable: without flinching, she calmly took the gun from him, reassured him, and proceeded to treat his injuries. It was this kind of composure and kindness that made her so beloved by patients and staff alike.

Lilian’s community spirit extended beyond the hospital as well. Lilian was a keen golfer and even served as lady captain at Springfield Park Golf Club.

Those who knew her from the golf course remember her infectious sense of fun – especially one memorable incident involving a golf cart that has since become legend among her friends.

Despite the many trials in her life, Lilian never lost her zest for living. Even in her final days, after suffering a stroke, she would sit with her grandchildren and family laughing and joking in the hospital.

Her faith, nurtured by her father, remained a guiding force throughout her life.

Lilian’s funeral will be held at St. Vincent's RC Church, Norden, on Wednesday 11 September 2024, at 11.30am. It will be an opportunity for the community, her friends, family, and colleagues to come together to remember and celebrate a woman who gave so much of herself to others.

Lilian Fairhurst dedicated her life to her family, her work, and her faith. Her legacy is one of selflessness, compassion, and unwavering dedication – a life lived in service to others, with a heart full of love and laughter. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.