Tributes have been paid to a much-loved restaurant owner who served the community for more than half a century.
Joyce Wright, who ran the Copper Kettle on Warner Street in Accrington for 54 years with her daughter, Carole Stamp, died on April 14 after suffering from heart problems.
As reported in the Observer last month, the business was due to close on April 30, to allow Joyce, Carole and Carole’s husband, David, to spend more time together.
Carole, 64, said: “Sadly that wasn’t to be and we didn’t make it to our retirement party on the 30th.
“The Copper Kettle was her life. She was a very private, modest lady who everybody held in the highest regard. She didn’t really have any hobbies, she just worked all her life and has gone out as she came in, very quietly.”
Joyce was born in Blackburn an only child and moved to Accrington in 1962 when she opened the restaurant, which became a town landmark.
Carole began working with her mum aged nine and as well as working at the restaurant, the pair catered for inaugurations of the town’s mayors as well as at events around the northwest.
Carole, who lived with Joyce and her husband David in Wilpshire, said: “We came across people from all walks of life and had a good laugh. David has been an absolute rock for us both too, helping front-of-house.
“Both myself and my mum were only children and we always feared we’d be on our own without family but everybody who’s worked for us and our customers became our family.
“One of our customers, Betty Phillpott, has been coming to the restaurant for 54 years.” And as a tribute to Joyce and a thank you to their customers, the Copper Kettle will open once more and put on a buffet after Joyce’s funeral.
Carole said: “We thought it would be nice to welcome everyone back for one last time.”
The two ladies worked together for decades but had their testing times too. Carole laughed: “Mum and I had our words as work partners, when it got stressful, and I did throw the odd pot or pan at her. But I greatly respected her and never raised my voice to her.”
She added: “After the Observer article last month we had so many cards and messages and she read every one. It was so nice to know how important the Copper Kettle has been to so many people and how loved she was.
“I’m just so relieved she knew how well-thought of she was. Most people don’t get to hear that before they die.”
Friend and neighbour Beverly Wilkins, who runs the Glory Hole shop on Warner Street and organised street parties with the pair, said: “I’ve known Joyce since 1960.
“She was a very proud and well respected person. We were good friends and if one of us saw something untoward going on outside we’d ring each other. We always looked after each other. It’s so sad.”
Joyce’s funeral is at Accrington Crematorium on Friday, April 22 at 1.40pm. A buffet at the Copper Kettle will follow the service.
