Former manager of Bournemouth's Cherry Tree Nursery dies after long illness

Jessica Davies, the former nursery manager of Cherry Tree Nursery in Northbourne died peacefully in her sleep on 2 May in the early hours of the morning after a long battle with cancer.

Cherry Tree Nursery, a charity based on providing meaningful occupation in a supportive environment, aiming to restore well-being to people with mental illness, was the mags4dorset charity of the year in 2016 and Janine Pulford, editor of 4Dorset and Viewpoint, paid tribute to Jess saying, “I will always remember Jess as a selfless and dedicated person who devoted all her energy to Cherry Tree Nursery in a caring manner. I had know Jess for about 17 years and found her a kind and genuine person. She never wanted the limelight and always put others before herself. She will be sorely missed.”

Another tribute written by a Cherry Tree Nursery volunteer, EF, said: On behalf of everyone at Cherry Tree Nursery, it is with deep heartfelt sorrow and regret that we convey to all who knew Jessica Davies, that she died peacefully in her sleep in the early hours of 2 May. This is a time of sorrow but also a celebration of her life. Jess touched the hearts of so many people. She truly was a unique human being, warm, passionate and caring. Jess’s work in South America was very important to her, right until the end.

Many of us are so grateful that Jess came into our lives. She was so compassionate, always thinking of others, and lived her life giving constantly. I always thought of Jess as compassion in action, she taught by example. Everyone at Cherry Tree Nursery will remember Jess with great affection and carry her in our hearts forever. She knew the true meaning of life, which is contributing to the happiness of others, and her actions spoke louder than words. Thank you Jess for your generosity of spirit.

Jessica’s funeral will be held on Friday, 26 May 2017 at 10.30am at Hinton Park Woodland Burial Ground in New Milton, BH23 7EJ. The Reverend Sue will be conduction a non-religious ceremony. Light refreshments will be available at Hinton Park following the burial.