Tributes have been paid to a nurse described as a “wonderful friend” and “role model” following her sudden death.
Grandmother of eight, Julie Jones, dedicated 35 years of her career to serving patients across the county.
The deputy director for urgent and emergency care at NHS Kent and Medway has died aged 57.
Mrs Jones’s husband Derek, who also works for the integrated care board’s (ICB) emergency planning team, said: “She knew from a very young age she wanted to be a nurse and that is what she dedicated her life to.
“She was passionate about patient care, and even when she rose through the ranks to leadership positions within the trust she kept them at the heart of her decisions.
“Julie was kind and mentoring staff was her driving force throughout her career, but particularly in the later stages.
“She always wanted everyone to be the best they could be, including me, and I was fortunate enough to benefit from her guidance and wisdom.”
Mrs Jones, who died on June 12, shared four step-children with Derek and eight grandchildren.
She first gained her registration in 1991 after training in Cardiff, and departed Wales for East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust (EKHUFT) in 2010.
She was based at William Harvey Hospital, first as a matron in cardiology, before working her way up through the ranks and joining the management team, responsible for its operational control centres at all three acute sites.
In 2022, she left to work as deputy director for urgent and emergency care at NHS Kent and Medway in Maidstone, where she remained in close contact with many of its teams.
Others have expressed their sadness at the death of the former Rochester Grammar School for Girls pupil.
Chief executive of the ICB, Adam Doyle, said: “Julie was a hugely valued member of our team and a dedicated nurse who gave so much to the NHS.
“She consistently embodied the compassion, professionalism and commitment that define the nursing profession, and she was also a wonderful friend and colleague to many across our system.”
Meanwhile, former friend and colleague, Hayley Lingham, added: “Julie was the manager of the emergency planning team, along with many other responsibilities when I joined EKHUFT in 2021.
“She was compassionate, dedicated, and went above and beyond to ensure the services she delivered were to a high standard, with patient and staff safety at the heart of everything.
“She always seemed to know everyone wherever we went, or knew exactly who to call.
“The wonderful way she gave time and support to us and other colleagues warranted the respect and friendships she fostered throughout her many years with our Trust and beyond.
“When she handed over the reins of emergency planning, and later left to join the ICB, I was lucky enough to continue to work closely alongside her.
“Julie always remained an honorary member of our team, sharing Christmas celebrations in London, and team nights out.
“Above all else, she was our friend. We will always remember how privileged we are to have been part of her and Derek’s life.”
People can share their condolences here.
Mrs Jones’s family have not yet made arrangements for her funeral, but say they will share details in the near future.
