Wendy Jill Stopps née Adams

Wendy passed away suddenly but peacefully, surrounded by her loving family on 31st January 2025, Wendy aged 62 years of Preston and formerly of Great Harwood. The devoted and much loved wife of Karl, loving and loved mother of Max and Samuel, dear mother-in-law of Rebecca and Nikita, loved sister of Julie and Martin and  dear sister-in-law, auntie, relative and friend to many. Wendy dedicated her life to nursing, a calling she embraced wholeheartedly from her training days at Royal Preston Hospital in the 1980s. A natural caregiver, she went on to work in the operating theatres St Bartholomew’s Hospital in Rochester, Kent and Salisbury Infirmary, Wiltshire.  Then she moved to Germany, where she worked as a practice nurse at the medical centre at the British Army Base. Returning to her roots, she continued her career at Royal Preston, caring for patients at the Kidney Dialysis Unit until her well earned retirement. Wendy was deeply respected and loved by her colleagues and those in her care, nursing was not just a career to her, it was a way of life. Beyond her profession, Wendy had a deep appreciation for the natural world. She found joy in long walks along the beach, collecting beautiful shells and fossils for her ever growing collection. Holidays were precious to her, and she created wonderful memories on family camping trips. In later years, she was delighted to fulfil a dream of owning her own touring caravan, embracing new adventures with her beloved husband Karl. A devoted mother, Wendy adored her boys, Max and Samuel. She encouraged them always, taking immense pride in their achievements, no matter how big or small. Once you became Wendy’s friend, you had a friend for life—she never lost touch, whether in person, by letter, or through a phone call. She will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who were privileged to know and love her. Wendy had a warmth and energy that could light up any room. In honour of her vibrant spirit, please wear something bright to her celebration of life service. Donations in Wendy’s memory can be made to Heartbeat NWCC (North West Cardiac Care),  If you wish to make a donation, please click the ‘Make A Donation’ at the bottom of this page or send to the funeral directors, a donation box will also be available at the funeral service. Please feel free to leave a message for Wendy’s online memorial book by completing the form below.

Colonel David Waters
Such a loss to her husband, family and military ‘family’.  She was a staunch supporter of the Royal Engineers Association of which her husband was the Chairman and Wendy brought all her qualities to supporting Karl and the Branch here in Lancashire.  She had the most caring and tender disposition and the warmest personality anyone could wish for. She was kind hearted, good natured and considerate.

John Wilson
Wendy was such a lovely person who always showed friendship and care. Anna and I can’t believe we have all lost such a gem from our lives. Wendy will be missed. XX

Wendy Strettle
Wendy was one of the most professional nurses that I ever worked with. I really enjoyed our time in the Medical Centre, Germany. She taught me a lot about practice nursing and I was so grateful for her advice. My heart goes out to all the family and I send my deep condolences.

Donna Carlaw
Wendy was such a loving and giving and genuine girl, she will be long remembered by me and I’m sure by so many others lucky enough to be part of her life. My love and sympathies to her wonderful family and many friends I send with sadness.

Wendy Strettle
Wendy was one of the most professional nurses that I ever worked with. I really enjoyed our time in the Medical Centre, Germany. She taught me a lot about practice nursing and I was so grateful for her advice. My heart goes out to all the family and I send my deep condolences.

Ruth and Charles Crossley
We are so sorry we are unable to attend Wendy’s funeral and will be thinking of you all on Thursday. Wendy will be missed by so many as she was such a lovely lady.

Carrol & Joe Stephenson
Our memories of Wendy extend back to her childhood and young teenage years. She was such a sweet natured, gentle, eager to help little girl whose subsequent choice of career reflected her compassionate qualities. We have been so sad to hear of her passing and send our sincere condolences to all of her family and friends.

Christine O’Brien
Wendy was a warm hearted, kind and generous person. She had a great sense of humour and was quick to see the funny side of life. She loved her family dearly and treasured their time together. I have fond memories of happy times together when our children were growing up. Wendy will be missed by her family and many friends.

Tom Bray Louise Oddy
We feel so privileged to have known such a beautiful and kind hearted lady as Wendy. Her devotion in not just her job but also her life in effortlessly caring for everyone she came across is a testament to how amazing of a woman, a mum and a wife she was. The world is a lesser place without her in it, the world will never see her like. We love you all and we will always cherish memories of her.