A tribute to Margaret Rosemary Harkness

We were very sorry to hear of the death of Margaret Rosemary Harkness, who died on 20th August 2026.

Margaret played a hugely important part in the history of Garden House Hospice Care. She was a member of the founding committee that helped establish the Hospice, which opened its doors in 1990, and she went on to volunteer with Garden House for more than 25 years.

Throughout that time, Margaret was a passionate supporter and ambassador for the Hospice. Her close relationship with actor Nigel Hawthorne also helped Garden House secure funding for the expansion and opening of the Hawthorne Centre, creating a lasting legacy for our organisation and the people we support.

Margaret was incredibly proud of Garden House Hospice Care, and her kindness, compassion and longstanding commitment were deeply valued.

Carla Pilsworth attended Margaret’s funeral on behalf of the Hospice and was grateful to hear so many wonderful stories about her remarkable life and the contribution she made to Garden House over so many years.

We remember Margaret with enormous gratitude and send our warmest thoughts to her husband Peter, her family and all those who knew and loved her. We are also deeply grateful to Margaret and her family for their continued friendship and support of Garden House Hospice Care.