81-year-old John Kelly, who suffered from Alzheimer’s, was robbed on Aylsham Road in Norwich by George Rivett and Dominic Gonzalez as part of a 90-minute crime spree in January of last year. Following the robbery, Mr. Kelly moved to Grenville Court care home in Horsford, where he spent the last 12 months of his life. Unfortunately, he passed away in May of this year at the age of 82.
Due to the love and care Mr. Kelly received at Grenville Court, plans are now in motion to install a bar in his memory for the residents and their families to enjoy. Mr. Kelly’s daughter, Sue George, was overwhelmed and touched by the idea, viewing it as a lasting memory of her father. She expressed her gratitude towards the staff at the home, emphasizing how loved her father was by both staff and residents.
The idea of installing a bar is particularly fitting since Mr. Kelly, a former managing director of a haulage company, ran a bar in Spain. Sue George believes that her father would be looking down and smiling knowing that a bar is being created in his honor. Moving to Grenville Court following the robbery was the best thing that ever happened for Mr. Kelly, as he was well looked after by the caring staff. The home has become like one big happy family, with everyone praising the staff and the quality of care.
Abby Thornhill, the manager of Grenville Court, stated that the bar is part of an initiative to promote hydration in care homes. She described Mr. Kelly as a true gentleman who always made them smile, despite his diagnosis and the challenges he faced. Thornhill spoke highly of Sue George, Mr. Kelly’s daughter, who has been a strong supporter and advocate for the home. Sue has generously donated to the resident’s activity fund and established a fund in her father’s name after his passing.
The bar, named “Kelly’s Bar,” will have an Irish theme with tropical vibes to remember Mr. Kelly’s adventures in Spain and his Irish roots. A framed picture of Sue and John will be displayed in the bar as a way to remember and honor Mr. Kelly’s impact on the home. The hope is that the bar will continue to bring smiles and help promote hydration for residents with dementia, ensuring that Mr. Kelly is remembered and celebrated. Rivett and Gonzalez, the individuals responsible for the robbery, were sentenced to 30 months and two years in a Young Offender’s Institution, respectively, for their “abhorrent” offenses.
