Not many people get to say "I love my job" like I did.
"Thank you so much for all the wonderful memories. It may have been a short time, but it was truly memorable."
"Penny, you're a gem! We will miss you and wish you all the best."
"We’re so sad to see you go; you brightened our lives so much."
"Dear Penny, your energy, compassion, humor, and creativity have been deeply appreciated."
Here are just a few of the heartfelt messages our superstar Village Assistant, Penny, received during her farewell celebration with the residents at Epsom Village. Since joining us two years ago, Penny quickly became an invaluable part of our community. Her dedication, warm personality, and endless kindness touched the lives of everyone around her, making a lasting impact on all who had the pleasure of knowing her.
On Thursday, October 24th, the village hosted a special morning tea, giving residents the chance to express their gratitude to Penny for her hard work and to send her off with their heartfelt best wishes.
Penny is moving to the South Island for personal reasons and found it difficult to part from what she lovingly refers to as her "heart job." In her farewell speech, she shared:
"I have said to many of you that I am blessed to have this job. This will always be my "heart" job. None of my previous jobs have given me the personal satisfaction that this role gives me every day. Not many people get to say "I love my job" so that right there is my true blessing. The biggest blessing of all is to be able to share my love to each and every one of you."
Penny is one of those hardworking team members who always goes the extra mile. Not only did she perform her role with excellence, but she was often called upon to take on extra and unexpected tasks—sometimes even involving a bit of costume fun. Penny enthusiastically joined in events like Pink Ribbon breakfasts and Winter Plunges, but she truly shone during the Christmas parties, where she was a fantastic Madame Claus alongside the Grinch, and stole the show as an outstanding Dr. Watson at last year’s Mystery Party.
During Penny's special morning tea, Village Manager Lillian Fletcher expressed her gratitude for Penny's positive attitude:
"I knew from the very beginning that Penny was the perfect fit for this role. In just two years, she has truly made it her own and become an incredibly beloved member of our community. Penny is an exceptional employee and a true team player. She not only strives to do her best but also ensures her colleagues are well supported, helping the village run smoothly. And when it comes to the residents—well, as you all know, Penny is so much more than just a Village Assistant. She’s been your go-to for tech help, whether with computers or mobile phones, a brave winter plunger, the village’s best scone baker and cocktail maker. Above all this, Penny has become a dear friend to many of you—us included."
The role of Village Assistant in a retirement village is one of the most diverse, covering a wide range of responsibilities to support the Village Manager and Activities Coordinator. Penny played an integral part in the daily life of the village, especially excelling in event organisation, where her creativity brought the best decorations and settings to life. However, what residents will remember most is her constant presence—always there to lend a helping hand or share a warm, friendly chat.
This is evident in the dozens of heartfelt messages in her farewell card.
"Dear Penny, a million thanks for the joy you have brought to me and the village. You will be missed."
"You're such a star, wonderful organiser, super communicator. It's sad to see you go."
"Penny, many thanks for your friendly and approachable disposition. You have definitely been an asset for this village."
From all of us at Epsom Village, best of luck with your next chapter, Penny.
You’ll always be a part of our family.
