Jean Roxburgh Leach
20 June 1954 – 10 May 2026
It is with profound sadness that we announce the unexpected passing of Jean Roxburgh Leach, who died peacefully at home on 10th May 2026, aged 71, following a heart attack.
Jean was a devoted mother, cherished nana and much-loved great nana, whose family remained at the centre of her world throughout her life. She leaves behind generations who loved her deeply and who will forever carry her strength, humour and unwavering loyalty with them.
Jean dedicated her entire adult life to nursing — a vocation she did not simply work in, but lived. Beginning her career at the very bottom, she progressed through determination, compassion and exceptional leadership to reach senior positions of great responsibility and respect. She was one of the youngest Senior Sisters at Brockhall Hospital, at a time when such achievement was rare, and earned admiration from colleagues and patients alike for the care, dignity and standards she brought to every role.
Her commitment to others saw her recognised with the Simon Wynne Nurse of the Year Award, but those who worked alongside her knew that her greatest achievement was never titles or awards — it was the people she supported, mentored and cared for. Jean was adored by her teams and trusted by patients. She led with kindness rather than status, earning respect naturally through her integrity, humour and fierce dedication.
Outside of nursing, Jean was unforgettable. She had a sharp wit, a colourful vocabulary entirely her own, and an ability to make people laugh even in difficult moments. Friends remember kitchen chats over a can of Heineken, endless stories, putting the world to rights, dancing enthusiastically to Brown Girl in the Ring, and passionately performing Simply the Best. Jean worked hard, loved deeply, and enjoyed life in a way few people do.
Those closest to Jean also witnessed her extraordinary resilience. In later years she faced challenges that many would struggle to endure, yet she remained stoic, rarely complaining and often placing the concerns of others before her own. Her strength was quiet but remarkable.
Jean leaves behind not only a grieving family, but lifelong friends, former colleagues and countless patients whose lives were improved by her care, kindness and unwavering support. Her legacy is one of service, loyalty, humour and love.
She will be missed beyond words and remembered always.
“Still love you.”
For those who knew Jean, these simple words became a familiar goodbye. They now feel like the most fitting way to honour her memory.
Still love you, Jean. Always.
Service
DATE AND TIME
Tuesday 26th May 2026, 2:20pm
ADDRESS
Accrington Crematorium Chapel, Burnley Road, Accrington, Lancashire, BB5 6HA
CALL ON
07734682612
Reception
DATE AND TIME
Tuesday 26th May 2026, 3:00pm
ADDRESS
Griffin Head Hotel, Burnley Road, Accrington, BB5 6LD
If arrangements change
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