Pamela Slater (Pam)

Pam of Great Harwood and formerly Haslingden, died unexpectedly but peacefully in hospital on 21 December 2021, age 83. Loving and loved partner of Brian Slater for over 30 years and much-loved stepmother of Lorraine. Pam was also a great friend to many both near and far. 

Born in Haslingden to John and Hilda Rowan, Pam started her working life as a shorthand typist. She soon moved into secretarial and PA roles, holding numerous positions in the North West including at CPA in Loveclough, Metal Box in Salford, County Court in Rawtenstall and Bradford and Northern Housing Association in Burnley.

A keen motorist, Pam was proud to have passed her driving test in 1956, at the age of 17 and  at a time when women drivers were rare and teenage women drivers even rarer. Pam was an avid tennis fan and loved to attend the big tournaments. She visited Wimbledon several times and delighted in being a spectator at matches in Ilkley, Manchester, Eastbourne and the US Open in New York. In 1994, she was thrilled to meet her favourite player, Jimmy Connors at a seniors’ tennis tournament in South Carolina.

As a teenager, Pam watched Gone with the Wind, sparking an enduring passion for the film (and of course for Clarke Gable). This devotion culminated in 1997 with a visit to Atlanta and the Margaret Mitchell House. A trip during which Pam wrote copious notes to document her experience.

Despite a lifetime of suffering with various health conditions, Pam had an indomitable spirit and a keen sense of fun and adventure. She loved to travel and her treasured destinations included France, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Kenya. She spent many happy holidays in the USA with Brian and particularly enjoyed trips to Florida at Christmas where the two of them would celebrate the season with festive dinners at a beach café on Anna Maria Island. Closer to home, Pam also adored visiting the Lake District and the Yorkshire Dales with Brian by her side.

Pam always had time for people and loved to chat, whether that was continuing rich conversations with friends of many decades or exchanging a spot of lively banter with the young guy taking her coffee order (Americano, please, and not much milk).

Down-to-earth, warm, good-humoured and spirited, Pam will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who knew her. In lieu of a funeral service, a celebration of Pam’s life will be held in spring for friends and family.

Brian would like to express his sincerest gratitude to neighbours Sue, Jos and Chris for their regular assistance; to Pam’s cherished friend, Joan, in France, for her tremendous support and love over the years; and to dear friends Carol, Jackie, June, Maureen and Val. Thanks also to Whalley Medical Centre, Dr Hindle and previously Dr Whyte, senior nurse Debbie and all NHS staff who cared for Pam.

No flowers please. Donations in memory of Pam are gratefully being received on behalf of The National Eczema Society and British Heart Foundation – two charities to which Pam often contributed. To make a donation, please click the ‘Make a Donation’ button at the bottom of this page.

 

 

MESSAGES for the family of Pamela Slater (Pam)

 

Jackie Lord

Pam was my mother’s cousin and I would take my mum, Marian, to visit. We started going out to lunch now and again and enjoyed each other’s company. When mum could no longer attend myself and Pam continued going out to lunch round the Ribble Valley and the odd shopping trip. Unfortunately COVID put a stop to these trips as Pam was so vulnerable. Pam always said what she thought being a ‘get what you see’ type of person. She had a great sense of humour and was chatty. God bless you Pam.

 

Val and family

We are so sorry for your loss. All our thoughts are with you at this sad time.

 

Joan Castick

Condolences to you all on Pam’s passing, which will leave an empty space in all our lives. She was my oldest and dearest friend, and the “big sister” I never had! Although the roles reversed in later life, I have nothing but the best memories of our friendship which has lasted a lifetime. Rest in peace my dear friend.

 

Ruth Mary Allen

It was a privilege to have met such an amazing lady. We formed a friendship from day one when we met in Blackburn Hospital that day. Enjoyed meeting her for her favourite Coffee Americano at Starbucks with hot water on the side. I will never forget her and her amazing zest for life. A dear friend.

 

Susan Cunliffe

Sincere condolences… going to miss you coming in to Tesco xx Rest in Peace x