RIP Gertie Farmery 8/1/1934 – 21/5/2021

Brittle Bone Society pay tribute at the sad news of the passing of Gertie Farmery. A lovely lady who alongside her husband John, devoted most of her life supporting the work of the BBS. A lifelong advocate in raising awareness of OI and fundraising for the work that the Society has undertaken from the very beginning of the Charity’s journey back in 1968.

Gertie was a front runner in the set up of the Longridge Branch alongside other dedicated volunteers and hardworking supporters. They ran numerous events annually including concerts and gave talks about what it was like to live with OI.

The Society were privileged  to ensure that they suitably honoured and recognised Gertie and John’s remarkable achievements at the Charity’s 50^th Anniversary Event in Dundee. BBS Trustees were pleased to bestow suitable recognition at the annual charity conference in front of all the ordinary members and friends. They were given a Lifetime Achievement Award presented by the Chairman Elaine Healey and Treasurer Robert Gordon.

Elaine Healey Chairman said: “The Society were truly grateful for the devotion, friendship and regular generous donations so kindly offered by the Farmery’s every year – and that their impact was immense.”

Friend and Trustee Yvonne Grant was also very saddened by the news – The Farmery’s often visited Dundee and were regular visitors to the Grant household. Yvonne and her dad David have many fond recollections of being with the Farmery’s both at local fundraising events, on caravan holidays at Monifieth, Fleetwood and London, and visiting Win, Gertie’s Sister, and late Brother in Law John in Longridge. She said: “The respect and love shared for John at this time for his loss was heartfelt. Always Remembered for her wicked sense of humour, kindness and generosity to not only the Grant Family but to others too. We will miss you Gertie RIP.”

Patricia Osborne CEO said: “I was so pleased I got the chance to meet Gertie on more than one occasion, she and John always visited the office on their regular trips to Scotland and they always made time to pop in and meet the staff and chat. They were truly devoted to the cause of the Brittle Bone Society and we send our condolences to John and the family.”

The family very kindly agreed permission for a floral tribute from the Brittle Bone Society. Gertie, dearly loved wife of John, dear mother of Lynda (deceased), beloved sister of Win, and a good friend to many. The funeral service took place at St Lawrence Church, Longridge 7^th June. Donations if so desired to Brittle Bone Society, William Houghton Funeral Directors, Chapel Hill, Londgridge, PR3 3JY