Barbara, born in London in 1934, has been a beloved resident at St Johns House for many years — in fact, she’s our longest-standing resident. Her story is one of resilience, warmth, and a quiet joy for the simple things in life.
As a child, much of Barbara’s early years were spent in air raid shelters during the Second World War. “Hitler didn’t like London,” she recalls with a knowing smile. While her brothers were evacuated, Barbara, being too young, stayed behind with her family.
Her first job was in a busy hardware shop that “sold a bit of everything.” Even when the shop changed hands — famously taken over by a pools winner — Barbara stayed on and thrived in her work. After marrying, she moved to Yorkshire, where her husband worked on the railways.
Over the years, Barbara has enjoyed embroidery, gardening, and still today finds joy in colouring books — she loves her adult colouring! She also fondly remembers trips to the cinema to enjoy old-fashioned films.
She is most definitely a tea lady: milk, two sugars, with a custard cream on the side. Sweet always wins over savoury for her.
When asked for her best advice in life, she doesn’t hesitate:
“Enjoy life to the full.”
And perhaps her character is best captured by the words of a fellow resident, who described her simply as: Quiet. Kind. Considerate.
We are so proud to share Barbara’s story as part of our Faces of Constantia series, celebrating every story for International Day of Older Persons.
