Born in August 1940 amidst the chaos and conflict of World War II, Maureen Hall grew up with her older brother Michael in a close-knit family in Sussex. Her milkman father rose before dawn every day to do his rounds, and brought home a bunch of flowers for her mother every week without fail. A small luxury during a time of hardship and rationing, it was nonetheless a potent symbol of her parents’ love.
Maureen has fond memories of her childhood, remembering the jars of preserved fruit in the kitchen that later made her way into her mother’s delicious fruit crumbles, and the precious one egg a week that she was allowed because of the rationing which, for eggs, persisted until 1953. As the only swimmer in the family, her parents were incredibly proud of her accomplishments in the pool. Her Uncle Harold and his faithful guide dog, Roy, were also important figures in her early life. Uncle Harold, who had lost his sight in a bomb blast, was the first person in Hastings to receive a guide dog and Roy was much admired in the town!
Having left school at 15, Maureen began her working life at Boots in Hastings, where her helpful nature and strong work ethic quickly stood out. She eventually rose to be manager of the shop floor and was trusted by the management to train the staff. Her stories of catching out shoplifters and their imaginative excuses was a source of much amusement to all who heard them. After decades of dedicated service, Maureen retired at 50, leaving behind fond memories and a reputation for exceptional customer service.
The love of Maureen’s life was Bryan who was just six months older than her. When their paths first crossed, it was his golden-brown eyes that instantly captured her heart. Their first date was spent walking and talking, and they quickly discovered a shared passion for ballroom dancing, especially the romantic waltz. Three years after first meeting they married, embarking on a 57-year journey together.
Their life wasn’t without hardships. Maureen faced a serious illness during the birth of their second son and Bryan had a stroke shortly after, requiring five months’ sick leave from his job at Bromley Council where he worked in the wages department. Despite these challenges, the couple built a beautiful family, raising two sons, Graham and Gary, and welcoming four grandchildren, including a much-loved step-grandson.
Besides work and family Maureen’s life has always been filled with plenty of activities. She continued with her beloved swimming and enjoyed organising jewellery parties, a testament to her sociable and entrepreneurial spirit. After Bryan’s passing six years ago, Maureen was able to rely on her family for support. She came to Ashridge Court Care Centre in October 2023, following a fall, as Graham and Gary were determined that she should be safe and well cared for.
Here at Ashridge, Maureen participates enthusiastically in the social activity of the home, and loves visits from her family. There are plenty of special moments, such as a delightful trip to Brighton where she and Gary enjoyed scones and cream in a quaint little café. She often recalls her days with Bryan and cherishes his memory, while the watch that he gave her as a present remains firmly on her wrist as a fond reminder of the great love they shared.
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