Rossendale Hospice Mourns Loss of Co-Founder Dorothy Mitchell
Rossendale Hospice has announced the passing of its co-founder, Dorothy Mitchell, at the age of 91. The hospice community is deeply saddened by the loss of a woman whose dedication and passion left an indelible mark across the Valley.
A Lifetime of Community Service
Dorothy Mitchell dedicated decades of her life to numerous community organisations and initiatives, consistently working to improve the lives of those around her. Her unwavering commitment to helping others created a lasting legacy that continues to resonate throughout the region.
Founding Vision for End-of-Life Care
In 1986, Dorothy co-founded Rossendale Hospice during a period when specialist end-of-life care within the community was extremely limited. Together with a determined group of women from Soroptimist International, she transformed a vision into reality.
What began as primarily a home care service for terminally ill patients grew through Dorothy's persistent efforts and the support of the local community. She worked tirelessly as a volunteer, overseeing day-to-day operations including administration and finances during the hospice's formative years.
Building a Sustainable Future
Through dedicated fundraising and growing community backing, sufficient funds were eventually raised to employ the hospice's first staff members. This milestone reflected Dorothy's determination and leadership in ensuring the organisation not only survived but thrived.
A significant development occurred in 1991 with the opening of dedicated day care facilities at 'The Bungalow.' From these modest beginnings, the hospice continued to expand its services, eventually relocating to its current base within the Rossendale Primary Health Care Centre.
Expanding Compassionate Care
Today, Rossendale Hospice provides a broad range of specialist support not only to patients living with life-limiting illnesses but also to families and loved ones navigating associated challenges. This comprehensive approach remains rooted in Dorothy's original vision of compassionate, high-quality care provided free of charge.
Tributes from Colleagues
"Dorothy was a true inspiration within our community. She really did have a heart of gold," said Christine Durkin, former vice chair of Rossendale Hospice. "She always made those around her laugh and was full of incredible ideas, which she used to help build the foundations of Rossendale Hospice."
"Dorothy made a lasting impression on countless people and never sought recognition for the work she did. She was nominated for the Rossendale Hospice 'Woman of the Year' award and declined the honour three times before finally agreeing to accept the much-deserved award in 2013."
"I would like to thank Dorothy for everything she did. It was a privilege to work alongside her for many years," Durkin added.
Regional Collaboration and Legacy
Dorothy also worked closely with neighbouring hospices including Pendleside Hospice, East Lancashire Hospice and Springhill Hospice, demonstrating her commitment to strengthening hospice care across the wider region.
Her vision, compassion and selfless service established the foundations for what Rossendale Hospice has become today. Dorothy Mitchell's legacy lives on in every patient supported, every family comforted, and every life touched by the hospice she helped create.
Funeral Arrangements
Dorothy Mitchell's funeral will take place at Burnley Crematorium on Friday, March 6 at 11:30am. This will be followed by a Memories and Celebration gathering at Rossendale Golf Club from 1pm.
She will be remembered with immense gratitude, respect and affection by all whose lives she touched through her decades of community service and hospice leadership.
