Colette, the bravest, strongest, friendliest, happiest, fun person I had the honour and pleasure to spend time with.

She regularly suffered with pain and emormous personal stress and challenges in her life but that did not stop her putting a smile on her face and being happy to hear and enjoy everyone’s news, always with support and a shoulder if they had struggles.

Always up for anything and willing to support every good cause (and I do mean every).

I remember a flyer in the staff canteen looking for volunteers, which in Colette style was all guns blazing and trying to recruit me as well. I reminded Colette of what she already had on, and her face dropped with the realisation that she couldn’t do this but a split second later “I can take it and show it to people, as they may not have seen this flyer”. Off she went with a smile and a spring in her step, as she had great joy in speaking to everyone she passed.

I will cherish what we did and will remember the joy and laughter you brought to any occassion.

May you rest in peace as you leave us with happy, fond memories of your cheeky cheery smile.