Hospice tribute to 'incredible' and much missed long-serving volunteer

North Devon Hospice has been paying tribute to one of its longest-serving and most cherished volunteers, who died this year after dedicating more than three decades of her life to the charity.

For more than 30 years, Pauline Wonnacott was the beating heart of the hospice’s Holsworthy shop, creating not just a successful fundraising retail operation but a real sense of community.

Pauline’s dedication to the hospice cause saw her build a team of committed volunteers and establish the shop as a pillar of the town.

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It became a place where people found support, friendship and kindness – thanks in large part to Pauline’s warm, welcoming nature.

Above: Pauline Wonnacott opening the new Holsworthy hospice shop in the early ‘noughties’.

Paying tribute to her achievements, hospice chief executive Stephen Roberts said Pauline had been ‘part of North Devon Hospice’s DNA’.

He said: “For decades Pauline skilfully, selflessly and successfully managed our Holsworthy Shop. But that is only part of her legacy. The real achievement was how she positively impacted so many lives.”

“I’m not just talking about the thousands of patients and families we’ve cared for thanks to funds raised in the shop – although that’s certainly part of it. I’m talking about the amazing community of volunteers Pauline brought together. She created a space of warmth, care and companionship.

“People found a sense of purpose and belonging there and that’s something truly special. That’s what Pauline will be remembered for most: her generosity, kindness and support. We will sorely miss her.”

Above: Pauline with one of her beloved Jack Russell terriers.

Pauline first began volunteering at the Holsworthy shop in the early 1990s. Initially giving just a few hours a week, her commitment quickly grew and she eventually became the shop’s voluntary manager.

It became clear to all who knew her the role was far more than a volunteering position – it was her passion and her pride.

Daughter in-law, Julia Mitchell, explained: “After 15 years devoted to raising her three sons, running a home and supporting her husband’s business, Pauline was ready to do something for herself.

“Volunteering at the hospice shop gave her that opportunity and she poured her heart into it.

“She built a loyal and diverse team of volunteers – all with different stories and backgrounds – and managed them with great care and respect.

Above: Pauline with childhood friends and Holsworthy shop volunteers Sandra Hamley and Valerie Mardell.

“The shop itself became a vital part of the community, offering affordable goods and a welcoming space for customers. Pauline knew how much this mattered to people.

“Nothing was wasted if she could help it. There was a 50p basket and even a freebie basket, for things that others might have just thrown away. She really understood the value in every donation, both financially and emotionally.”

Despite being a humble and private person, Pauline’s contributions didn’t go unnoticed. In 2018, she was honoured with the prestigious Order of Mercy award at a ceremony held at London’s Mansion House, recognising her decades of service to North Devon Hospice.

Above: Pauline with her three sons.

More recently, hospice Stephen Roberts had intended to nominate her for an MBE and even recorded a heartfelt video message for Pauline during her final illness.

“Pauline was deeply moved by the message,” said Julia.

“But true to her nature, she said she didn’t do it for the recognition. She was proud of her work, but modest. As we said at the time – it’s those who never seek praise that deserve it the most.”

Outside of the shop, Pauline was a devoted mother and grandmother, with a soft spot for animals – especially dogs. Over the years she shared her life with a series of Jack Russell terriers and golden retrievers.

Pauline also had a passion for music and live gigs – not what many would expect from a grandmother!

In her later years, she went to see dozens of major bands, from Muse and Stereophonics to The Prodigy, The Killers and Foo Fighters.

“She could always be found at the front, up by the barrier,” said Julia, “she absolutely loved it.”

Above: Pauline loved live gigs and attended many big name concerts including The Prodigy, Stereophonics, Muse and The Foo Fighters. 

In her final weeks, Pauline was cared for by her family at home, with some support from hospice nurse Louise and the wider community nursing team. While she didn’t need extensive hospice care herself, her family were reminded of just how vital these services are for others.

“We were fortunate – Pauline had three sons and their partners all living locally. But we’ve reflected on how different things would be for someone who didn’t have that support network,” Julia said.

“That’s why she was so committed to the hospice. She knew how much it meant to those going through difficult times without help at home.”

In her final days, Pauline’s family surrounded her with love, sharing memories and reminding her of the extraordinary impact she had made through her volunteer work.

Julia added: “Her legacy will live on in every life touched by the hospice.

“She was a kind, warm and generous person who always put others first. We’ll miss her wicked sense of humour, her roast dinners, her energy, and her spirit. But above all, we’ll remember her as someone who truly made a difference.”

North Devon Hospice has extended its profound thanks to Pauline’s family and all who supported her over the years.

“Pauline was – and always will be – part of our hospice family,” said Stephen Roberts.

“Her spirit will live on in the Holsworthy shop and in the community she helped create.”

Those wanting to make a donation in Pauline’s memory, which will help North Devon Hospice continue caring in our community, can do so at https://www.justgiving.com/page/paulinewonnacott