Agenda item

To consider the terms of a resolution of condolence following the death of Joyce Carruthers Nash, O.B.E., lately Member for the Ward of Aldersgate.

Resolved unanimously – “That the sincere condolences of this Court be extended following the sad death on 13 June of:-

Mrs Joyce Carruthers Nash, O.B.E.

Our long-time colleague and friend, a valued Member of this Court representing the Ward of Aldersgate for almost 38 years. Her funeral took place on 7 July in the Church of St Lawrence Jewry-next-Guildhall, the church of the City of London Corporation.

The Corporation, its elected members and staff meant a great deal to Joyce. She had no close family and, over the years, the people at Guildhall became the next best thing. As each new Member was elected, she wrote to congratulate and welcome them and offer help and advice if needed. She was similarly welcoming to all staff members, one of whom wrote recently to say that she remembered Joyce as being the first person to welcome her to the Barbican.

Joyce kept in touch with many many people, asking about spouses, partners and children, learning and remembering their names – and, in some cases, the names of their dogs! Since we lost Joyce I’m finding that the grapevine does not work nearly as well as it did.

She had a great gift for friendship: Joyce loved people. At social gatherings she could join any group and instantly strike up a rapport with someone. Those who met her would remember her and enquire how she was long afterwards. And if she came across someone from Yorkshire, her home territory, that was a huge bonus.

Her life was long, busy and varied, and touched the lives of hundreds of people who will long remember her. She leaves behind an admirable legacy.”

The Court proceeded to pause for a moment’s silence and reflection.