A 99-year-old woman passed away just months before a planned celebration of her 100th birthday.
Ivy Taperell, who had been living at Arthur House care home in Wimbledon, died peacefully in her sleep in April ahead of what would have been a landmark anniversary on July 17.
A planned centenarian celebration for Ivy was instead transformed into a celebration of her life with residents, staff and friends joining together to remember Ivy - a much loved member of the care home.
Noreen Cecil-Purvis, home manager, said: "We had planned a big party for her 100th birthday when Ivy sadly passed away, we decided to continue with the celebrations and remember Ivy and her long life."
Ms Cecil-Purvis added: "Ivy reached such an amazing age.
"She enjoyed sitting in the lounge at Arthur House reading her newspaper, always had a smile for everyone and enjoyed the visits from her family and neighbour.
"Ivy will be sadly missed by all at Arthur House."
Just one week after her death, her son Andrew died following a battle with cancer.
Mrs Taperell, who had two children and five grandchildren, worked as a secretary for many years for a company dealing with carpets and curtains for hospitals and later as a bookkeeper for her son Andrew’s company.
She continued to work for him doing the wages until she was 93.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here