Newark Care Home Unveils Its Memorial Tree For Residents

There were smiles, shared memories, and a few tears of love at Anavo’s Newark Care Home on Thursday, October 16th, as residents, families, and staff came together for a touching service to unveil the home’s newest garden feature. A memorial tree has been created to honour and remember those who have been a resident at Newark Care Home.

The service, led by Reverend Dr Lisa Curtice of St Mary’s Episcopal Church, offered a moment of reflection and togetherness, with heartfelt poems and prayers shared among the Newark Care Home family.

The first ornament to be placed on the tree was hung by 87-year-old Mary, in memory of her beloved husband, Frank, who sadly passed away earlier this year. Mary and Frank shared a special bond not only with each other, but also with the Newark community. Living just across the road, Mary knew the staff long before Frank became a resident, and she continues to visit often, staying connected with the familiar faces who supported them both.

For Activity Coordinator Margaret, who organised the service, the day carried a personal meaning. Having worked at Newark Care Home for 17 years, Margaret also placed an ornament in memory of her mother, Agnes, who once called Newark home.

Margaret shared. ““It made me quite emotional seeing all the families come together as it reminded me how close we all are here. I hope the memorial tree will give people a place to think of happy memories with their loved ones. It’s such a lovely addition to the garden, a peaceful spot where residents like to sit and reflect.”

Home Manager Sharon Kelly also placed an ornament on behalf of the staff as a symbol of love and remembrance for all residents who have passed away.

“Newark has always been closely connected to the Port Glasgow community,” Sharon said. “It’s important for us as a team to be part of this memorial because we form close bonds with residents and their families. It’s wonderful to see families return and know that we’ll always be here for them and their loved ones will never be forgotten.”

Now standing proudly in the garden, the memorial tree is more than a feature, it’s a symbol of community, care, and the enduring connections that make Newark Care Home so special. To learn more about life at Newark Care Home and the services we provide, please click here.