It is with great sadness that Campden Home Nursing shares the news that our much-loved colleague and volunteer, Diane Mason, has died following a short illness.
Diane died peacefully at Myton Hospice in Warwick, where she praised the nurses for their kindness and compassionate care.
In June 2020, during the Covid pandemic, Campden Home Nursing had the privilege of supporting Diane’s husband, Bob, at the end of his life. Our nursing team enabled Bob to die at home, where he wanted to be, surrounded by Diane and their children.
Following Bob’s death, Diane received bereavement counselling from Campden Home Nursing before joining our Bereavement Support Café. There, over tea, cake and shared experiences, she found comfort, friendship and understanding. She became friends with another widow and they supported each other at this difficult time.
Determined to give something back to the charities that had supported Bob, Diane volunteered for Campden Home Nursing and The Shakespeare Hospice. She quickly became one of our greatest champions, organising fundraisers including Bob’s Bowl, running tombolas and collecting prizes and selling tickets for our most successful Big Christmas Raffle and even calling the BINGO at a fundraising evening.
Her volunteering began in the gardens at our base, Jecca’s House. In her trademark jolly yellow wellies, Diane helped shape not only the gardens but also the Gardening Group, bringing people together with the same care and enthusiasm she gave to every project.
One of her proudest achievements was establishing our wildflower meadow. She organised its planting, delighted as it flourished and became its fiercest guardian. Anyone tempted to stray from the mown path risked a gentle but firm reminder to protect the rare wild orchids she loved.
Diane soon began helping on reception, where her warmth, efficiency and exceptional organisational skills made her indispensable. She was later offered a paid role and eventually became our Lead Receptionist.
She also took on the weekly relaxation classes, creating such demand that plans were made to double the number of sessions. When families fleeing the war in Ukraine arrived locally, Diane organised English classes and community suppers at Jecca’s House. The classes became so popular they eventually moved to a larger venue. She also helped transport donated medical supplies for Ukraine whenever needed.
Whatever she turned her hand to, Diane brought energy, practical thinking and unwavering commitment. She spoke her mind, tackled challenges head on and expected high standards, always wanting the very best for Campden Home Nursing. Beneath her direct manner was a generous heart, deep compassion and a remarkable gift for bringing people together.
Diane even became the face of Campden Home Nursing, appearing on our website, brochures, social media and email signatures.
She strengthened our wellbeing services, improved our reception, shaped our gardens and enriched the lives of colleagues, volunteers, clients and visitors alike. She built lasting friendships across the charity, from fellow volunteers and staff to the children who visited Jecca’s House. Her impact will continue to be felt.
Diane will be missed beyond words. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and everyone whose life she touched.
She was, quite simply, a force for good.
Our thoughts remain with Diane’s family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
