Mary Quinn (Styles/née Glynn)

A dedicated and passionate nurse

Mary embarked on a remarkable nursing journey that spanned 56 years, leaving an indelible mark on the history of healthcare in Essex. Hailing from Killucan, Ireland, Mary’s passion for nursing led her to Broomfield, in August 1962, having come over aged 18 years old with her cousin Delores via a cattle boat from Dublin to Holyhead.

Mary had previously completed a domestic science scholarship at school which gave her a good grounding for nursing. In Broomfield she completed a 2-year B.T.A. Certificate (British Tuberculosis Association) before specializing as a Tuberculosis chest specialist and obtaining her 3-year SRN.

Her commitment went beyond personal endeavours, as Mary actively recruited family and friends from Ireland to join her in the noble profession. Throughout her tenure at Broomfield and Chelmsford & Essex hospital, Mary’s dedication and compassion became synonymous with exceptional care.

In 1971, she transitioned to night duty at Broomfield until 1975, adapting to day shifts during school hours after her husband’s passing. Mary’s journey to becoming a sister unfolded in 1983, overseeing geriatric care until 1985 at Broomfield, and then presided over the ward move to St John’s Hospital in Chelmsford.

Her thirst for knowledge led her to the Care of Elderly course in 1988 at St Peter’s, which lead to her being appointed as a Relief Sister at St Michael’s and later as a Sister for Community Liaison. The chapter from 1988 to 1998 saw Mary making a significant impact at Black Notley, later specializing in orthopaedics. She then returned to work at Broomfield Hospital and only retired in 2018 at the age of 74.

Mary ‘s legacy is not only measured in years of service but in the countless lives she touched with unwavering commitment and exceptional care. Her story stands tall in the annals of nursing history, and we honour her as a truly passionate and dedicated person who is a true embodiment of Florence Nightingale’s principles.