We are so sad that Southmead has lost one of its community greats, Joan Bennett. Everyone knew Joan, she was at the centre of all good work in the community, an incredibly hard-working volunteer, and she will be hugely missed. Joan was a Trustee for the Southmead Development Trust when it was first formed, and was one of the founders of The Mead magazine – we will be dedicating The Mead’s 20th anniversary celebration to her.
Everyone who knew and loved Joan is welcome at her funeral this Wednesday. Joan’s Granddaughter, Laura, wrote:
It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Joan Valerie Bennett, who left us on the 27th of May, 2024, at Southmead Hospital, aged 82. Gran will be truly missed not only by her family, but by the Southmead Community.
She was one of the unsung heroes of Southmead – one of those people who has given her free time without any financial gain. She worked to support local people by providing her financial expertise, where she was able to make sure any money coming into Southmead was put to good use. Dedicated to her volunteering work she was on the Southmead Youth Club committee – where she oversaw the financial planning and made sure the funds were spent wisely on young people, and she worked hard helping with the Friday dinner club for the elderly, and other community groups.
Her commitment made a huge impact on the decisions on what was happening in the area. She was also part of the planning committee for supporting the building of Pen Park Sports ground, she was very supportive of Southmead Youth Club, Southmead Development Trust, and the list goes on. She was part of The Mead magazine from its beginning. She was a very kind, smart and beautiful lady who put her heart and soul into her family and Southmead. She was one of those people who made things happen without anyone knowing her involvement, just quietly getting on with it.
The funeral service to celebrate Joan’s life will be held on the 20th of June, at 12:45pm, at Canford Cemetery . In honour of her vibrant spirit, we will be wearing flashes of colour.
We know all readers of The Mead, and many many more, will all join us in sending our love and deepest sympathies to Joan’s family, loved ones, and friends.