Dearest Colleague and friend of Larchwood care homeColleagues at HC-One’s Larchwood care home, in Braintree, have been paying their respects to a dear friend and Colleague John Parker. 

Sadly, the home lost John to Covid-19 which has been such a sad loss for everyone. He was described as a lovely gentleman, so kind and sincere. Nothing was too much trouble for John and he treated every Resident with so much kindness. 

John had been part of the Larchwood team for sometime and was a friend to many and a loyal Colleague. John’s best friend, Eve, and her family arranged a drive through so that Larchwood Colleagues could pay their respects to John, and there was, as expected a huge turnout of Colleagues. Staff from all departments assembled outside wearing black masks and music was playing; Eva Cassidy. 

Eve and her family thanked staff for the respect that was shown for John. A butterfly release was arranged too but the butterflies weren’t quite ready to take off, so Eve’s grandchildren gently held the butterflies in their hands which was a touching moment for all. 

Staff all lined the main road as he left, but will never be forgotten. The funeral service was watched via Zoom video call by Colleagues and management. 

Home Manager, Jade Smith, remarked, “John was an amazing man, he will be missed by many and his best friend Eve and her family. Staff will continue to support Eve, our Colleague and friend, with her sad Loss. 

“Eve and her family will release the butterflies in a place of their choice when they are ready to fly.”