Tributes paid after 101-year-old lifeboat supporter passes away

Wednesday 11 December 2019

Tributes have been paid to a long-serving RNLI supporter and fundraiser, after she passed away at the age of 101.

Jean Petre (née Menzies), who gave more than four decades of her life to the lifeboat service, died “peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family” on Friday 6 December.

The news was announced yesterday by RNLI Jersey, which paid tribute to the “friend” of the charity, who was also an active volunteer for many other causes.

In a social media post, they explained: “Jean was a member of the RNLI Jersey Lifeboat Guild from 1977 until she retired last year not long before her 100th birthday. She was a vey active and supportive member right up to her retirement and she continued to take an avid interest in our efforts.” 

It added: “She will be sadly missed by all her family and friends.”

During her time with the lifeboat charity, Mrs Petre was awarded for her commitment, receiving a badge in recognition of her services. 

Mrs Petre was also remembered by the Menzies Clan Society – a heritage-exploring group bearing her maiden name – which said she had made a vital contribution to their work and operation.

In a tribute on Facebook, her nephew, Ian, said that, even at the age of 101, her “conversation and wit [were] undimmed!”

He shared a photograph of Mrs Petre - the young daughter of a Sir Frederick Kay Menzies and Lady May Menzies – which now resides in the National Portrait Gallery. 

Dozens of islanders have left Facebook comments paying tribute to Mrs Petre, with one describing her as “a true lady”. 

Another said: “A long life well lived. Rest in peace and rise in glory.” 

Her cremation will be taking place on Friday at 10:45. Donations have been requested in lieu of flowers to the RNLI Jersey Guild and the Royal British Legion.