Tributes have been paid following the passing of a Scarva nurse who was honoured with an MBE in recognition of her Services to Health in the 2022 Queen’s Birthday Honours.
June Cairns MBE, of Bann Road, passed away peacefully in Craigavon Area Hospital on Sunday (November 26) after a short illness.
A death notice described June as the beloved wife of Gordon and cherished mother of Lisa, Ryan and Richard, mother-in-law of David, Kate and Pamela.
She was also the much loved granny of Christopher, Sarah, Oliver, Rowan, Ellie-May, Aimee and Scarlett.
June was Acute Frailty & Rehabilitation Ward Manager at the time of her recognition as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), having worked in Lagan Valley Hospital for over 41 years.
She started her career on the surgical ward as a young nurse, managing to work her way through every single ward in the hospital. She then took up the post of Ward Manager in ward 14 in 2003, when the ward specialised in rehabilitation for strokes and fractures.
When the ward’s ethos changed to acute medicine with a focus on frailty, June embraced this change, before stepping back from full-time work in January 2022.
Following the announcement of June’s passing, dozens took to social media to pay their tributes.
One said: “I can’t even begin to try and word how much June meant. The person who pushes you to your absolute best, dismisses your doubt or when you question your confidence shows you why you shouldn’t. I am heartbroken but incredibly grateful to have experienced your light.”
Another added: “So sorry to hear of June’s passing. She was a lovely lady, we were side by side in the same ward only a few weeks ago. She was still being a nurse even though she was the patient, making sure I got my pain relief. Thinking of and praying for Gordon and all the family.”
Family and friends are welcome at the family home on Monday and Tuesday 11am – 9pm. The Funeral service will take place on Wednesday (November 29) at 2pm in Acton Parish Church with committal following in the adjoining graveyard.
Family flowers only please, donations for the benefit of The Children’s Heartbeat Trust and Acton Parish Church via www.milnefuneralservices.co.uk/donate or cheques made payable to Milne Funeral Services Donations Account c/o 5 Newry Road, Banbridge, BT32 3HF.
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