Vicky 28th January 2021

I first met Lorna almost six years ago. We met when I sat opposite her whilst hot desking and began to use the same desk. In typical Lorna style she introduced herself to me and we just hit it off. I relocated to the Lower Ground but we stayed in touch and we became friends. She would often avail herself of one of our desks when she couldn't find a free desk upstairs and I remember much laughter on those days. I was struck by her dedication to her job – she always had so many plates to juggle but made it look easy, notebook and pen in hand and did it with a smile on her face and never looking to seek personal reward for her efforts. I knew early on that she was part of the fabric of BEIS by the amount of people that would stop and chat to her. We’d talk about her volunteering role at Barts and how she’d take the trolley around the wards and chat about the social events she managed to cram into her time outside of work. We all knew that Lorna had a fun, naughty side too - with a wicked laugh and sense of humour to go with it. My abiding memories of her will be that laugh, her love of theatre, Star Trek, musicals and old films and her impression of Judge Judy which would render me hysterical. Other people may have known Lorna far better than I did but everything that has been said about her has resonated with me – which shows what a genuine person she was. That is a rare quality to have. Lorna, the phrase "she had a beautiful soul" is often overused but that was you and I am devastated that you have left us and will miss you always. Thank you for your friendship, you will not be forgotten. I hope you are at peace now and back in the arms of those you had lost and who I know you missed so much. I hope Tinkerbell is there with you to share your journey. My thoughts are with your family. xx