I was sad to hear of the passing of Maria. I did a few projects with Maria when I worked in estates at Oxleas. Maria was always so lovely to do a project with, she was positive and nurturing even when things went wrong. She really was a pleasure to work with. Take care all. Matt…

I first met Maria around 15 years ago, when I came into NHS Finance. She was one of my first budget holders and I always remember her kindness and patience.  Her dedication to the children she supported was evident from day one. She inspired me to be better and I will always be greatful to her.  Her dedication and contribution to the NHS was admirable. She will be sorely missed and I feel priviledged to have know her and learnt so much from her.   …

Maria is a shining example of the best of the NHS- dedicated, caring, inspirational and professional. She always priortised the welfare of her colleagues, and was passionate about providing the best care for children. She was truly the epitome of kindness, compassion and courage. Maria- you are special,much loved and greatly missed.  …

Maria was a true shining light in the NHS!  I first met Maria when we trained together as paediatric nurses at Greenwich University. At the time she was juggling not only a young family but also setting up the first Paediatric homecare team in Bexley. We always used to laugh about the name ‘homecare team’ as it sounded more like a service for home cleaning rather than nursing support.  Little did I know that this remarkable women would become a wonderful friend throughout my career and provide me with endless guidance, support, reassurance, fun and laughter along the way.     I feel truly honoured and blessed to have known her. Maria’s legacy will never be forgotten as it lives on in her beautiful family and in all her nursing colleagues she inspired in her remarkable career. …

Maria was both a colleague and very special friend for over 25 years. Having Maria alongside me as I juggled raising my young family with the challenges of children’s services in Bexley was a joy and a privilege I will never forget. Maria exemplified the values of the NHS and inspired me and so many others with the depth of her caring and and her passion for ensuring children with the most complex needs could be cared for at home. She was never, ever, too busy for anyone and so many of us sought her wisdom on everything from family life to work issues. I never understood how she managed to be so present for us in the workplace and yet still the irreplaceable mother, wife, grandmother, daughter, sister she so clearly was. My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family as they come to terms with such a premataure loss. Maria never missed an opportunity to mark a milestone in a colleagues’ life with an array of silly nursing related gifts and it is that mischievous grin which will be the enduring happy memory I carry with me. Rest in peace my dear friend. …

Having known Maria for a number of years, I will miss her compassion and enthusiasm to improve the lives of Bexley families. Not only was she a lovely person, it was Maria I sought out when we had a challenge to work through, knowing that she would listen carefully and work with us to find a way forward. Maria was approachable, understanding, family focused and above all kind. I hope she knew how special she was and the difference she made to so many parent/carers and children. Now at peace, we will miss you Maria….

I remember Maria as a really nice person. friendly, helpful, kind and hardworking, with a real wish to do her utmost for those under her care. I am sure she will be greatly missed. Jo Springthorpe Audiologist from 1989-2009…

Although not a direct report of Maria I have known her across many years and her dedication, professionalism, and drive to support our families was always at the fore.  Leading with energy and kindness Maria made everyone feel valued and even I am sure when under tremendous workload herself, always found time if advice or guidance was needed.  Maria will be greatly missed….

i will remember Maria for her passion, professionalism and immense sense of fun….she never failed to make me laugh….but i learnt so much…..the NHS is a poorer place, but whole generations of nurses are better nurses, and better people for having worked with this remarkable woman…

Maria, you were one of the kindest and most lovely people I had the pleasure to work with.  You were always so caring to families and colleagues and focused on doing what was best for children and young people even in the most challenging situations.  I will miss working with you but feel lucky that I had the chance to know you and hope that you know that you made such a difference to so many people….

Maria you touched the hearts of so many.  You a true inspiration.   Maria you the reason I became a nurse.  First employing me a respite carer before encouraging me to do my nurse training.  You believed in me and guided me and supported me not only professionally but also personally.  You were there for me when times were really hard. Maria I thank you for all that you did for me, and for all that you achieved for the families you supported. You will never be forgotten xxx…

I had the pleasure of working closely with Maria during the past 18 months. Although it was challenging to respond to the ever-changing COVID situation, Maria led her team with patience, kindness and wisdom. We always knew that she would be available to answer any queries we had and supported us to manage our teams through the pandemic.I was constantly amazed at Maria’s ability to juggle her many committments (both in and out of work). She was always available to offer wisdom and support and was a natural encourager of others. I’m not sure she got much rest as she seemed to respond to emails at all times of the day, including evenings and weekends! Maria was passionate about delivering high quality, effective care to the children in Greenwich and had been doing so for so many years. So many families will have been positively affected by the decisions she has made and she will be greatly missed….

I will miss Maria greatly. She was a wonderfully supportive manager and a person who really cared about Oxleas staff and the families we serve. Paula x   …

I did not work with Maria for that long compared to many of her colleagues, but I worked very closely with her at times.  When I think of Maria, I always see her smiling.  She was a compassionate and caring person, absolutely dedicated to the children and families she served.  She took great pleasure in the achievements of her staff, and wanted the very best for everyone.  Ar dheis De go raibh a hanam. x…

Maria, Your poise, and grace are an example to us all, alongside your passion to improve the lives of children. We saw this especially during the pandemic, where you worked tirelessly with your lovely team. I only knew you for a short time, but saw only kindness, compassion, determination, whit, and a drive to only do the best. I know you will be rewarded in your new home, as you rest amongst the angels.  Eternal rest grant unto Maria, o Lord and let perpetual light shine upon her, and may she rest in peace.  Mary …