Tributes paid to devoted lollipop lady (From Wandsworth Guardian)

Tributes paid to Battersea-based lollipop lady Rosina 'Zena' Sullivan

7:20am Thursday 10th February 2011 in Your Say By Ian Mason

Rosina “Zena” Sullivan, of Battersea Park Road, and her husband Ron

A popular lollipop lady who spent 25 years making sure youngsters got to and from school safely has died aged 63.

This week, tributes were paid to Rosina “Zena” Sullivan, of Battersea Park Road, who died on January 21 at Trinity Hospice, in Clapham, after a long battle with breast cancer.

Daughter-in-law Lisa Matty said Mrs Sullivan was a “remarkable woman” who refused to sit still despite being diagnosed with cancer in 2005.

The 39-year-old said: “She did not believe in sitting at home waiting for it to happen.

“She always loved the job - she loved children and interacting with kids, she loved doing that.

“We are extremely proud and have been for many years.

“She never gave up - that was her saying - she never gave up on anything.”

Mrs Sullivan was regularly seen wearing her bright yellow jacket from May 1983 until September 2008, predominantly outside Battersea Park School.

She stopped patrolling the road more than two years ago but continued to lend her support to the school whenever her health allowed by taking on other duties.

Mrs Matty said: “She also run the Race for Life a few years ago and came in last, but still completed the course even with her walking stick.”

Following in her footsteps, several members of Mrs Sullivan’s family now plan on taking on fundraising challenges, including a skydive later this year.

Mrs Matty added: “She has left a big legacy within her family.”

Headteacher at Battersea Park, Gale Keller, said: “Zena was a valued member of the non-teaching staff at the school for more than 25 years.

“Her commitment to the school has been immense, and currently four of her grandchildren are attending the school.

“She will be sadly missed but remains in our thoughts and prayers.”

Mrs Sullivan is survived by her husband, five children, 14 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Mrs Matty has set up a fundraising page in aid of Trinity Hospice. To donate visit justgiving.com/zenasullivan.