13 Feb 2026 Personal Stories

A Mother’s Love Remembered: Louise’s Tribute to Sue

Mother’s Day can be a time of reflection as much as celebration, a moment to pause, remember, and honour the women who shaped our lives. For Louise Evans, it is an opportunity to celebrate the life of her mum, Sue Guermech, whose love, strength and selflessness continue to guide her every day.

Sue was 66 when she died from cancer in November 2022, spending her final weeks in the care of The Kirkwood. Through the Mother’s Day in Bloom campaign, Louise and her family are paying tribute in a way that feels especially meaningful, remembering not only the care Sue received, but the countless memories, traditions and love that will never fade.

On the way we cared for her mum, Louise said: “The Kirkwood provided care for our beautiful Mum who we sadly lost in November 2022. She spent her final few weeks there where she was supported by a dedicated team to help make her end of life as comfortable as possible.”

Now, through The Kirkwood’s Mother’s Day in Bloom campaign, Louise and her family are remembering Sue in a way that feels deeply personal and fitting.

Louise continued: “The Mother’s Day in Bloom campaign is a fantastic way to dedicate a tribute in our mum’s memory. We are grateful to be able to celebrate her in this special way and for others to appreciate the beauty that will be on display. We spent many lovely times walking at Oakwell Hall and in later years mum would take her two granddaughters to the park, which was such a precious time for her. She took pride in spoiling those close to her and special occasions were always celebrated with plenty of love, time, and effort, so this campaign feels very meaningful.”

For Louise, words can barely capture what her mum meant to her: “It’s impossible to explain how much Mum meant to me; I simply couldn’t have asked for a more supportive or selfless mum. Throughout her life she put everyone before herself, caring for her family, friends, and the lucky children she taught during her days working at Dewsbury College and at Fairfield School. Her job was mentally and physically demanding and in true mum style she fulfilled her role with a high level of commitment and dedication. She went above and beyond in her care for me during some tough times in my life and I certainly wouldn’t be where I am today without her by my side.

“A wise, generous lady who was loyal to the core, mum once bought me a decoration which read, ‘Mothers are like stars, you don’t have to see them to know they are there.’ She is now my guardian angel and will live on forever in my heart.”

Louise also spoke about the importance of The Kirkwood’s support, not only for her mum, but for her whole family: “The Kirkwood is a very important charity for the Kirklees area and we as a family are forever grateful for the care they gave to Mum,” she said. “Dignity and compassion are a top priority for The Kirkwood, which is crucial when people are faced with a life limiting illness. I was able to access grief counseling via The Kirkwood which was very beneficial in my healing journey. It is important that campaigns such as this are supported to raise funds for this vital service.”

Through Mother’s Day in Bloom, families across Kirklees can dedicate a beautiful peony in memory of someone special, with tributes displayed at Oakwell Hall. For Louise and her family, it is a chance to honour Sue’s love, kindness and devotion and to ensure her light continues to shine.

Find out how you can dedicate a peony to someone you love HERE.