Tributes continue to pour in following the death of popular and ‘inspirational’ Middlesbrough Councillor Jeanette Walker.
Cllr Walker, who represented the town’s Hemlington ward for more than 17 years, died on Friday after a long illness.
The 76-year-old, who had overcome major transplant surgery, played a huge role in Council life, with tributes coming from across the political spectrum.
She chaired the Council’s Family and Learning Scrutiny Panel for many years, and more recently was chair of both the Licensing and Adult Social Care committees.
A life devoted to public service also saw her chair both Hemlington Community Council and Hemlington Linx youth project.
Paying tribute to her late colleague and close friend, fellow Hemlington ward Councillor Nicky Walker said: “Jeanette touched the hearts of so many who knew her.
“She cared about everybody and worked tirelessly for Hemlington right up to the end.
“Jeanette was so passionate about Hemlington and over the last few days our community has shown through their hundreds of messages the enormous affection and regard they had for her.
“Many thought us sisters and called us the ‘Walker Sisters’, and although we weren’t actually related, I do think we were sisters in our hearts.
“I will always miss her, and my love and thoughts are with her family of whom she was so proud at this incredibly sad time.”
Tireless work in her ward also included a spell as a church warden at St Timothy’s Church where she helped to start the community café.
Cllr Walker was heavily involved in campaigns to save Hemlington Library and the local lollipop lady and bring a GP surgery to Hemlington, and was committed to community events such as Christmas in Hemlington and the popular Family Fun Days.
Cleveland Police & Crime Commissioner and former Middlesbrough Council Labour group leader Matt Storey said: “I was devastated to hear about Jeanette’s passing.
“She was wonderful, kind, funny and energetic, so devoted to her community as a Councillor and so sharp and passionate.
“She brought joy wherever she went and we are so lucky to have known her.”
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke added: “Jeanette served her community diligently for over 17 years as a Middlesbrough councillor, and her loss will be felt by all across the town.
“We can all take inspiration from the wealth of service Jeanette provided, and the immensely positive impact she had, touching the lives of so many.
“A truly dedicated public servant, loved and admired by those who knew her, she will be fondly remembered.
“Our love and thoughts are with Jeanette’s family and Nicky as her trusted fellow ward councillor at this time.”
The Erimus flag has flown at half-mast over Middlesbrough Town Hall.
A book of condolence is open at Hemlington Library while a second, at the reception at Middlesbrough Town Hall, is now open from 9am to 5pm until Wednesday.
You can enter from Centre Square or from the courtyard, while the reception is staffed.
Funeral details are shared below with the permission of the family.
Thursday, 5 September
1:30pm - Depart from Phoenix Park, including a loop of Hemlington (Hemlington Hall Road - Cass House Road - Stainton Way - Hemlington Hall Road) and passing by Hemlington Lake.
2:15pm - Service at St Columba’s Church, Middlesbrough (next to Sainsbury’s, Middlesbrough town centre).
3:30pm - Short committal service at St Bede’s Chapel, Teesside Crematorium.
4pm - Celebration of Jeanette’s life at Hemlington Recreation Centre.