A WOMAN who provided first aid and care to the Leigh and Southend communities for more than 57 years has died.

Joy Watson, 67, from Southend, joined St John Ambulance in 1960 as a junior, before becoming at Cadet at the age of ten at what was then the Leigh-on-Sea Nursing Division for girls. The division eventually combined with boys to become the Leigh-on-Sea Combined Cadet Division.

Joy worked hard to gain her Grand Prior award before becoming an adult member with the unit.

During this time, Joy trained as a professional nurse, before becoming a nurse educator at Southend Hospital delivering training to new student nurses.

Joy also became the divisional nursing officer of the cadet division, a role which she held until taking over the unit as superintendent in 1992.

During her time as superintendent, the division provided many hours of duty to the community at an array of events both locally and further afield.

The division worked hard at fundraising, and after a lengthy campaign was able to purchase its own mini bus.

In recognition of Joy’s dedication and service to St John Ambulance, she was made a Serving Sister of the Order of St John in 1989, and an Officer of the Order of St John in 2002.

Close friend and colleague Craig King said: “Joy Lesley Watson, Divisional Superintendent, Leigh-on-Sea Combined Cadet Division – you leave behind many friends and lots of happy memories. Thank you for your service and commitment to helping others, but more than that, thank you for being you.

“Joy was passionate about Leigh and saw her role as serving the town and its people.”

Joy’s funeral will be held on January 4 at 10am at the West Chapel, Southend Crematorium, followed by a service of thanksgiving at Leigh Wesley Methodist Church, Elm Road, Leigh, where the St John Ambulance meets weekly.

Flowers or donations should be sent to St John Ambulance c/o Co-Op Funeral Care, 15 Queensway, Southend.