Beyond incredible - A generosity of spirit that lives on

Mavis James (z’l) was proud, independent and an inspiration to us. She liked everything to be in order and she told us some years ago that she had decided to include a Future Gift to Jewish Care in her Will,” explains her nephew, Jonathan Joseph.

“A unique person, my aunt trod lightly on this earth. We had a close connection, and she asked for very little from others. Her decision to leave behind an incredible legacy with this gift in her Will speaks volumes about her, and the values she believed were important. Mavis did not imagine she would need to rely on others for her care in the final stages of her life.

“However, she was content when she moved to Anita Dorfman House care home at Sandringham, during the final 18 months of her life, before she passed away at the age of 96.”

Jonathan continues, “I was grateful for the extra time I had to spend with her whilst she was a resident at the care home. The carers provide outstanding care. I think Jewish Care should be very proud of itself, of the dignity with which people are treated, of the quality of the care and the generosity of spirit, which is invaluable.”

Previously, Mavis lived a modest life in Queensway, travelling around on public transport until she was 90 years old. Born on 18 July 1926, Mavis grew up in Willesden and was evacuated to Sussex with her mother during World War II. After the war, they moved to South Africa where she was close to her brother’s family. Mavis left Johannesburg in the 1950s and then returned to London, working for the Women’s Royal Voluntary Services (WRVS) and, later, in retail and communications, as one of the last switchboard operators.

Over 25 years ago, Mavis was connected with the Jewish Blind Society, spending time at one of their homes supporting refugees who were residents there. She was their close friend and supporter. When the Jewish Blind Society became part of Jewish Care, she let Jewish Care know that she would leave a Future Gift in her Will to them.

Sarit Simon, Jewish Care’s Legacy & Giving in Memory Lead, says, “Mavis James z’l was incredible in her lifetime and beyond. She planned for the future and had greater peace of mind knowing that her family were aware of her wishes.

“We are incredibly grateful to Mavis for her kindness in choosing to leave a Future Gift to Jewish Care in her Will. In this way Mavis’s legacy ensures that our vital services will be there for others today and in the future.”