Tributes paid to Sheffield charity fundraiser who has died, aged 70

Lynne Pannett died aged 70 in January after working for 30 years for Neurocare, a Royal Hallamshire Hospital-based charity which raises money for people with brain conditions.

In that time she helped raise around half a million pounds for the charity and became a ‘much-loved and respected part of the Neurocare team’.

Lynne’s widower Derek, aged 71, who lives in Wadsley Bridge, paid tribute to his wife’s selflessness and the way she bravely faced her illness at the end.

“Lynne was one of those people who would do anything for anybody,” he said.

“Even after she was diagnosed she bagged up all her jewellery to give to her family and friends, who have been absolutely fabulous.

“She put a letter in every one and wrote me a letter as well. I told her I couldn’t believe how brave she was being.

“In the house now I have 104 cards which just shows you how highly she was thought of. 200 turned up to the funeral and we didn’t even put it in The Star.”

As well as fundraising, Lynne enjoyed performing in pantomime, gardening, dancing, socialising and traveling.

While she didn’t have any children of her own, Derek said her numerous nieces and nephews were like sons and daughters to her.

Lynne initially got the job because she wanted to give something back to the charity after her husband Derek was treated for a brain aneurysm when he was 19-years-old.

Over half a century later, the couple celebrated their golden wedding anniversary last September.

A spokesperson for Neurocare said: “Over the years Lynne built up countless relationships with staff, suppliers, patients and their families, some of whom now visit the hospital regularly just to see her.

“She was a much loved and respected person and a true part of the Neurocare family who we will miss deeply.”

At Lynne's funeral - which took place on Monday, February 10 in the North Chapel at Grenoside Crematorium - £740 was raised for Neurocare.