Joy Nicol who passed away on 5 January 2010
Cantamus is reeling from the terribly sad news of Joy’s passing away in the early hours of 5 January and our prayers and thoughts are with her father and Ted (7) who will be heartbroken. Joy has been so brave, so optimistic, so determined to get well that we all truly believed it was possible for her to overcome this terrible disease.
The staff, current girls and I are so grateful that she was able to share in two of our Christmas concerts, one at the Palace Theatre and the other at Southwell Minster and had tea with us on both occasions. It was a delight to have her in our midst again and that she was able to play the triangle in Riu,
Riu, Chiu in the Minster is an extra special moment for all concerned and a memory to be cherished.
Joy was such a support to all who crossed her path; so many students have been helped and guided by her. She was a marvellous teacher and a tower of strength to her pupils and her friends. Cantamus has lost one of it strongest supports whose loyalty, commitment, musical abilities, fun-loving and witty personality enhanced the Cantamus family.
Her work and inspiration lives in all of you, either as a pupil, friend or as a member of Cantamus whenever you were in the choir since she joined us in 1992. I know Joy would be honoured and moved to know that you are all grieving for her loss and all supporting each other through this sad time. You will each have very special and individual memories of Joy and you should share them with each other and the staff. We are finding it hard to believe that this wonderful, talented bundle of energy is no longer with us but we know her memory will never be forgotten and we will once again smile together as we recall her many kindnesses and humorous quips.
We can never forget all that she was, all her many gifts and her absolute generosity. She is a loss to many organisations and schools but none more so than to Cantamus where she was a light in our midst for 18 years.
We will be in touch once we have any further news regarding the service. I hope we may be asked to sing and if this comes to pass we want as many of you as is possible to join us in the singing if you are able to be present. Sheila will post details, as we receive them, on
this website, Facebook and on the Forum.
This comes with our love to each of you and our gratitude for being allowed to share Joy’s life and gifts.
Pamela Cook, the Cantamus staff and family.
Updated 5 January 2010