Tribute to Margaret Fitzpatrick

For more than 36 years, Saint Francis Hospice was at the very heart of Margaret Fitzpatrick’s life. Affectionately known as ‘The Boss’, Margaret was small in stature but mighty in character. She was known for her warmth, her wonderful sense of humour, and her deep compassion. Loved and respected by colleagues and volunteers, Margaret brought comfort and dignity to so many people being cared for on the ward, and the support she offered will always be remembered by their loved ones. 

Originally from Co. Tipperary, Margaret was very proud to be Irish. She moved to Essex in 1960, but she carried her Irish roots with her throughout her life, bringing with her a natural warmth, wit, and friendliness that became part of her unmistakable charm. 

Margaret first heard about Saint Francis Hospice before it opened in 1984. At the time, she was a full time mum of four, but three years later she began working as a domestic on the ward, a place she quickly came to call her “second home.” 

Her connection to the hospice deepened when her husband James was cared for there, strengthening her bond with the place that would become such an important part of her life. 

After 30 years of dedicated service, Margaret decided it was time to retire. Looking back on her time at the hospice, she said, “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.” 

But she wasn’t ready to walk away. A year later, she returned as a volunteer. Volunteering brought her joy and purpose. She explained, “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.” 

Margaret’s presence on the ward was a blessing. She had the ability to lift spirits, whether through a kind word, a warm smile, or her gentle humour. She supported people under the care of the hospice with compassion and brought comfort to their loved ones at some of the hardest moments in their lives. To her colleagues and fellow volunteers, she was a wonderful friend: steadfast, loyal and endlessly kind. 

Even in her 90s, Margaret insisted on coming in whenever she was needed, saying simply, “It does not hurt me to come in. I love being busy and I love being here.” 

Her decades of service were recognised many times, including the 30 year Long Service Award she received during the hospice’s 33rd birthday celebration in 2017. 

Margaret Fitzpatrick will be deeply missed by her family, friends, by volunteers and staff, and by the countless people under the care of the hospice and their loved ones whose hearts she touched over more than three decades. She leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, dedication and service that will continue to shine brightly at Saint Francis Hospice. 

She will be remembered always, with gratitude, admiration and great affection. 

The funeral Mass will take place at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, Lowshoe Lane, Collier Row, RM5 2AP, at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday 11th March 2026. Everyone is welcome to attend. 

After the service, the cortege will drive past Saint Francis Hospice between 12:45 and 1:00 p.m. The funeral will then continue to South Essex Crematorium, Ockendon Road, Upminster, RM14 2UY, for a 1:30 p.m. service. 

Family flowers only.

Margaret wished for donations to Saint Francis Hospice in her memory.