FAMILY and colleagues have paid tribute to a “kind-hearted” and popular charity shop manager from Dursley. 

Mum-of-three Julie Rymer, aged 63, died on Thursday, February 29 after recently being diagnosed with cancer. 

She was a familiar and welcoming face to many in the town, having worked at the Blue Cross animal welfare charity shop for ten years, including as a volunteer.  

A fundraising page has now been set up by her colleagues in hopes of helping Julie’s family. 

In a statement friend and colleague Nicola Milliner says Julie will be remembered for selflessness and says her passing has “left a void”. 

“She was a truly amazing lady. She was such a gentle soul, very selfless, kind hearted, funny and a loyal friend to everyone who knew her,” she said. 

“But most of all, she was an amazing mother to her three daughters, Lydia, Ronnie and Lucy.

“So many customers have been shocked and devastated by her passing, as she was a much-loved lady who touched the hearts of everyone she met.

“She will forever be missed by everyone. 

“Her passing has left a void in all of our lives, and a day will never go by without her being in our thoughts and in our conversations.”

A representative for Blue Cross said Julie will be greatly missed and that her work had made a significant impact on the community over the years.

David Palmer head of retail operations said: “Julie had been with Blue Cross for 10 years as both a volunteer and part of our paid team as a manager in our Dursley shop.  

“I am sure I speak for everyone in our team when I say how well thought of Julie was to our retail team, and to the charity as a whole.  

“During her time with Blue Cross, Julie made such a difference in the local community with the work she did with the wonderful volunteers in our shop, raising vital funds for the work our charity does.  

“We will miss her so very much.”

Nicola added: “Julie made the decision that she didn’t want a funeral, and everyone who knew her would smile as she ‘never wanted a fuss and would hate to be the centre of attention’. 

“But sadly, there will still be funeral costs that her daughters will incur.

“Many of her friends, customers and people who knew and loved her, have asked if they can make donations to help out the financial burden that her family is facing. 

“So, with consent, this fundraising page has been set up so that anyone who would like to make a donation can do so knowing that all money raised will help her family out during this heart-breaking and devastating time. 

“Thank you to anyone who is able to give support at this difficult and sad time. 

“The girls have given their heartfelt thanks for all the love, support and kind words from everyone who knew their beautiful mum.

“The sky has gained the brightest shining star.”

You can view the fundraiser here - tinyurl.com/2nwm4aa6