Mary Morison

Formerly Consultant Psychiatrist, Horton Hospital, Epsom

Dr Mary Morison died in February. She always considered herself first and foremost a ‘hands-on’ clinical psychiatrist. The achievement of which she was most proud was having founded a flourishing mother and baby unit at Banstead Hospital, which provided a much needed service. Her expertise, sympathy and common sense earned her the gratitude of many vulnerable patients, and the admiration and respect of her staff.

Mary was born in New Zealand; both her parents were doctors and she herself trained at St Andrews University, a fact of which she was extremely proud: she graduated MB, ChB in 1943. After her house jobs she served in the Women's Royal Naval Service. Then, after demob, she was appointed at Banstead and later was appointed consultant at Horton Hospital in Epsom where she brought her usual flair to the running of her wards. She also ran a busy out-patient clinic at the Nelson Hospital in Wimbledon as well as being honorary consultant to the newly established Cheshire Home nearby.

She lived on Richmond Hill for some years and after her retirement she was more easily able to indulge her many interests which included ballet and travelling.

Mary was widowed when still in her thirties and she brought up her children, Sandy and Fiona, in her flat at Banstead Hospital. She had a grandson, Laurence, of whom she was extremely proud. She is sorely missed by many friends who will remember her for her warmth, sense of fun, generosity, kindness and engaging personality.

As a footnote, I would like to add that ‘Onward Christian Soldiers’ was chosen as a hymn at her funeral service and ‘All you Need is Love’ was played at the close - admirable choices, perhaps reflecting the essence of her individuality.