I met Jan through her husband Julian when discussing writing children’s literature. My first impression of Jan was warm, kind and open. We quickly bonded and went on to collaborate working on two children’s book which Jan passionately began taking steps to illustrate. Our working relationship evolved naturally into a special friendship and we spent many times laughing, brainstorming and supporting each other and family life.Jan was a very special woman who will be greatly missed and admired for her love of family, creativity and steadfast at being and becoming a great friend. I know you are with the angels as you were an angel to many here on earth. I love you and will always hold you close to my heart.

Yvette ❤️

Will always love you, Jan. And just as you have helped us all wake up a little, my support for your journey continues. Hugging you! xxx

Sabu Bhugobaun

Rest easy my friend. Fun loving, humble, considerate and loving Jan. Until we meet again.

Karen Harte

The first time I had the honour of meeting Jan, she welcomed me with open arms to her home. She was always smiling, giggling and I could be so silly around her. My favourite memory with her was when we were just chilling together in the kitchen when she was making food for Lulu. Lulu was still very young and was eating a special toddler pasta Bolognese. I was super excited about it and saying I really wanted some, so she made loads and loads for me because I couldn’t stop eating it. We were laughing so much because she had initially offered me adult food and she found it hilarious how much I was loving the mushy mix of pasta. I forgot what our conversations were about that day, all I can remember is constantly bursting in laughter. Then Mia arrived super confused and laughing and said “You know that’s baby food right?”. Jan then replied “Of course she knows! And it’s delicious!”.

All of my future conversations with Jan were full of joy and laughter. Thinking of her warms up my heart. Thank you for being a big ray of sunshine in all of our lives.

Ysé La Mache-Bensammar

Jan, you were a true gem. You are so missed and loved beyond belief. A true fighter and hero. Rest in peace.

Love Dan, Lou and Sophia x

Jan.. From the day we met, you totally got me and I totally got you.. and our beautifully bonkers friendship grew.
You have the most beautiful soul my friend, and I love you dearly. Xxx

Shane Etheredge

Jan,
A wonderful wife, a caring and loving mother, a talented artist, a beautiful friend and a fantastic parent rep!!! You did it all… you are a real inspiration to us all. Thank you for being YOU. Miss you always…
Lucile, Mark and the girls

Lucile Airault

When I close my eyes and think of Jan, I see a smiling, cheeky, warm, kind, considerate, emphatic lady – full of life, love, and not taking life too seriously. I witnessed (as a neighbour) Jan fighting cancer for almost two years; with fortitude, selflessness, and love for Lulu, Mia and Jules. As Mia told me she never once said ‘why me’ or hated the world. She just focussed on ensuring that her children and husband could be at peace when she left. A true artist she saw interest and beauty in everything and everyone.

Love Chrissie and Stu

A shining light, always warm, always smiling, always joyful. A true inspiration.

Penny Moore

Rainbows on a Wednesday

Between the rain burst clouds and the sun that shone through,
Appeared a beautiful rainbow and I knew it was you.
We were gathered together in brightly coloured clothes,
Those were your wishes that everyone chose.
No black, no veils, no mourning you said
Just beautiful tributes and stories be read.

You arrived in style in a camper-van,
your wicker casket was topped with wild flowers.
As everyone spoke about how loved you were they shared stories of your super powers.
You touched the hearts of everyone and I knew you heard every word.
A room filled with love, with laughter and tears, everyone’s tributes were shared.
The songs you chose to play for us perfectly remind me of you.
Filling me with bittersweet feelings, sadness and love to name but a few.
The live performance by Jules, Dhara and Cliff had us all singing along
It was such a beautiful moment in time and a totally beautiful song.

Sunshine on a rainy day it is as if you knew!
I saw a rainbow in the sky that day and Jan I knew it was you! X

I love and miss you sis xx

Paula Pollitt