Tributes Honor Animal Sanctuary Founder Maggie Jackaman

Commendations have been offered for a “very special lady” who devoted over three decades of her existence to aiding abandoned animals, a commitment she maintained until her passing. Maggie Jackaman, recognized as the “heart and soul” of Suffolk and Essex Small Animal Rescue Welfare (Sesaw) in Leavenheath, passed away on 6 December at the age of 80. Having established the sanctuary approximately 32 years ago, Ms Jackaman, supported by a team of committed volunteers, provided care for and found new homes for hundreds of animals. Subsequent to her demise, the charity’s trustees declared that Sesaw would cease operations on 31 January – a decision Ms Jackaman had striven to prevent. The trustees’ official communication stated: “The animals currently in our care will be rehomed or, as applicable, transferred to other animal welfare charities in the area.” Proposals to cease the sanctuary’s operations were initially revealed in August, at which time Ms Jackaman conveyed to the BBC that it was actually needed “more than ever”. The announcement of Sesaw’s forthcoming closure deepened the sorrow surrounding Ms Jackaman’s passing. Keiran Hoynes remarked: “Her unwavering compassion for animals was unmatched by anybody I have ever known.” “She was a beacon of hope for countless animals and the people whose lives she touched and her memory and mission will live on in the animals she saved.”Rest in peace, Maggie. Your love and dedication will never be forgotten.” Martin Nichols encountered Ms Jackaman for the first time a decade ago, when he began fostering felines and subsequently hedgehogs from the facility. He stated: “Her legacy should be all the peoples’ lives that have been touched by the love they received from the animals that were rehomed.”[And that was able to happen] because of Maggie never turning animals away and believing they had a second chance.” “It’s just such a sad end, but many of us hope to continue the much-needed work of saving animals who, through no fault of their own, need to be rehomed.” Catherine Elmer, who had been acquainted with Ms Jackaman – described as demonstrating “acceptance, love, compassion and empathy” – since her childhood, later became a volunteer for her. Elmer further remarked: “What she had was a gift and she was revolutionary in her time to create what she did,” she added. “I don’t think many of us could get up every day for 32 years for the welfare of others – I think it’s remarkable and should be honoured.”I will miss her sparky personality, cheeky smile, face full of expression and heart full of love.” Gill Lewis, operator of WeCare Wildlife Rescue, who had known Ms Jackaman for over a decade, expressed that she had “lost a good friend”. Lewis further stated: “Mags was an amazing lady whose love for all creatures shone through – she didn’t mind if they had quirky little ways,” she added. “Sesaw and Mags shone as one light and I wish I could have done more to keep the light shining in both. We’ve lost a very special lady and a special place.” Follow Suffolk news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. Read about our approach to external linking.