Jan Ivy Hamilton

Arriving on Tuesday, the 1st of April 1958, in central Plymouth, Jan came into this world as the youngest child of Ivy and Ronald Fraser. With siblings Peter, Susan, and Linda, she grew up surrounded by love and laughter, though life was always lively in their household. Her father, a Bombardier in the military, and her mother, a laundress, instilled in her a strong sense of discipline and hard work.

Jan’s early years were filled with adventure, moving to Cyprus and Germany as her father’s career dictated, before the family eventually settled back in Plymouth. These formative experiences shaped her vibrant, adaptable spirit and her love for meeting new people.

As a young woman, Jan met her partner, William, and together they started a family, welcoming their children, Lee and Claire. Their journey took them to Scotland, but as life unfolded, Jan found herself returning to Plymouth, where she raised her teenagers with her trademark strength and determination.

Becoming a grandmother brought out a new sparkle in Jan’s life. She adored her five grandchildren—Aisha, Layla, Ellie Mae, Madison, and Karis but her bond with Aisha was truly special.
Aisha lived with her Nan from birth, and Jan was her constant, her guide, her best friend. Together, they shared countless cherished moments, from dinners to bath times, and trips to Seaton beach with Josh and the dog, Riley, or the Exeter Christmas Market to try all the treats on offer.

Jan was fiercely protective of her family. She always had Aisha and Layla’s backs, teaching them life lessons with honesty and a strong work ethic. Layla and Nan shared a playful, love-hate relationship filled with banter and laughter, which Layla will surely treasure forever.

Professionally, Jan worked tirelessly as a healthcare assistant at Evergreen for over 25 years. She was incredibly dedicated, compassionate, and—true to form—insistent on a well-made bed. Her colleagues – including Nikki, Dell, Julie, Carla, and Terry – became her close friends, and their bonds carried on even into her final days, as they visited her at St Luke’s Hospice.

Jan loved life on Plymouth’s Barbican, she enjoyed walking around the streets and marina alongside her daily trips into town to visit Marks & Spencer’s to pick up her dinner. She was a woman of simple pleasures—spicy curries, a good cigarette, a cup of tea, and her favourite soaps like Emmerdale and Home and Away. Woe betide anyone who interrupted her with a phone call or knock at the door at 7 pm!

She was also a lover of music, dancing, and the joy of a good party. Younger Jan could often be found dancing on tables at the Cider Press Pub, the life and soul of every gathering. In later years, her tastes softened to cheesy Hallmark Christmas films and Disney animations, proving that her heart remained forever young.

Jan had a dream of owning a villa in Spain, a vision of sunshine and serenity. While she never realised this dream, she brought warmth and light to everyone around her, making every gathering feel like a holiday.

In April, Jan retired from her career, hoping for a restful chapter ahead. Tragically, in August, she was diagnosed with cancer. Her final weeks were spent at St Luke’s Hospice, where she was cared for with tenderness. True to her character, Jan found joy even in her last moments, savouring one final curry brought by Aisha.

Jan passed away on Wednesday, the 18th of December 2024, at the age of 66—still so full of life in spirit. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and cherished memories.

Her family and friends will always remember her as honest, stubborn, hilarious, and unapologetically herself. Whether she was teaching Aisha how to live boldly, smacking Layla on the back of the head for a laugh, or sticking her fingers up at people just to keep things interesting, Jan lived her life her way.

Jan, you were a devoted and proud grandmother, a beloved sister, and a cherished friend. You were 66 years young, and while we wish you could have stayed with us longer, we like to think of you now, finally relaxing in your dream villa in Spain, basking in the sunshine, with a warm breeze carrying the scent of the sea. And, true to form, you’re probably already dancing on tables, cigarette in one hand, a cuppa in the other, sticking your fingers up just for the fun of it, and making everyone laugh along the way.

Rest in peace Jan, you will be missed, but will remain treasured in our hearts, always.