On 18 July 2023, Yvonne Mary Winterburn MPharmS, aged 89 years, of Ashbourne, Derbyshire. Ms Winterburn registered with the Society in 1955.
Tribute
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Mary Winterburn, whom I have known for nearly 40 years.
Mary began her professional career by working in her father’s chemist shop in Skipton, Yorkshire, before acquiring her own pharmacy in 1983 in Cromford, Derbyshire.
I was highly privileged to do regular locum work for her from the mid 1980s onwards. She created a quaint, warmly welcoming village pharmacy that proudly served the locality. Through her tireless endeavours, Mary developed a community pharmacy that became a vital pillar in healthcare services in Cromford and the surrounding area.
Mary’s contribution to community pharmacy was reflected in how she was loved and respected by the customers. I admired her enthusiasm and passion to serve others and could only marvel at her repertoire of traditional skills, such as her extensive inventory of own formulations of medicines and professional truss-fitting services. She had an inimitable flare for innovation and a style of leadership that won her friends and support from all who came to know her.
Each year, the family would enjoy a summer break in Devon. Mary experienced a huge setback when her husband Paul, sadly passed away in 1995, as he was not only a source of strength but an integral part of the day-to-day running of the pharmacy. She continued her annual trips to Devon, which came to be her personal space and solace where she could enjoy nature and indulge in reading, one of her favourite pastimes.
I have not only learnt a lot from the humble way she helped everyone through her generosity and kindness, but also I came to acquaint myself with her beloved pets, Twopee the dog and Smokey the cat.
On retiring, Mary was able to devote herself more fully to family, including the recent arrival of a great grandchild. She had time for everyone.
Mary passed away peacefully, leaving behind a rich abundance of fond memories and will be greatly missed.
Kashmir Nagra