We regret to inform you of the passing of Gillian Swan. She died, very peacefully, on Sunday morning, 23 April 2023, aged 87, at Beverley Grange Nursing Home where she had lived for the past few years. She has been in a very frail state of health for most of the time she has been there.
For those of you receiving this notification who are unfamiliar with Gillian’s name, then she was Secretary/Treasurer of our self-help group in its “former existence.” On our website she is “listed” as “Honorary member.”
In reality, Gillian ran the group, virtually single-handed, for many years, from the 1990s right up to around 2016 when escalating ill health rendered her incapable of continuing. This came as a real frustration to Gillian, as The Group had been such a big part of her life and the time commitment she gave to the ME cause was remarkable. She was a real student of ME, constantly researching, always with an open mind as she recognised how differently the condition could present itself from one individual to another. With the exception of her devotion to family, it is unquestionable that The Group WAS her life. She was a classic case of someone who always went “above & beyond,” an example being the numerous home visits she provided for some members unable to attend meetings, some of these individuals particularly severely affected by the condition.
Gillian was referred to by many as “A Saint.” Others preferred to call her “An Angel.” That says it all.
A relatively small number of our group’s current list of “Contacts” will know Gillian, such is the time lapse since her involvement. There are, however, those who knew her well.
Should anyone wish to attend, Gillian’s funeral will be held at 12.30 pm on Tuesday 23 May at Haltemprice Crematorium, Willerby, HU10 6NS. Gillian always liked to see clothing with a splash of colour and this would be welcomed at her funeral.
Gillian requested only immediate family flowers at her cremation. Any donations in Gillian’s memory will be sent to the Homeopathy Action Trust (Registered Charity 328537), which was her chosen charity.
After the service, refreshments will be served at the Ferguson Fawcett Arms, Walkington, HU17 8RX.
To assist with the catering the family would be really grateful if you could message us so we can pass on their contact details.