Centenarian Fundraiser Joan Willett Dies at 108, Remembered as “Inspirational”

A 108-year-old individual, celebrated for her charitable fundraising efforts that generated thousands of pounds, has passed away at her residential care facility. Joan Willett, who was born during World War One, received a British Empire Medal in 2023 in recognition of her fundraising contributions to the British Heart Foundation. Her fundraising activities involved walking repeatedly up and down a hill situated outside her care home in Hastings, East Sussex. Old Hastings House, her residence for 26 years, reported that she passed away “gently” on Friday evening. Ms. Willett, a former educator who had overcome two heart attacks, was characterized as “remarkable” by acquaintances. Pauline Glenet, the activity co-ordinator at Old Hastings House, stated: “Everyone who knew her loved her very much. She will be sadly missed.” She added: “But her wise words of wisdom will resonate for many years to come.” Glenet concluded: “She’s such an inspiration to everybody.” During her 108th birthday celebration in July, Ms. Willett, born in St Leonards-on-Sea in 1916, shared her perspective on achieving a long and healthy life. She remarked: “I think you should take an interest, not just sit down in an armchair and go to sleep, as many people do,” adding, “I think then because you are interested in other people, they become interested in you.” Ms. Willett successfully raised over £60,000 for the British Heart Foundation after completing a 17-mile walking challenge, explaining her motivation was to support the charity whose research had contributed to her longevity. The hill she ascended has subsequently been named in her honor, and she was presented with a Points of Light Award by the prime minister in 2023, acknowledging her fundraising achievements. She indicated that her inspiration came from Captain Sir Tom Moore, who garnered £39 million for NHS charities by walking laps in his garden during the coronavirus pandemic. Due to her frailty preventing her attendance at a Buckingham Palace event, staff and residents at her care home in Hastings, East Sussex, arranged a private celebration when she was bestowed with her British Empire Medal.