'It wasn’t just a job to her it was her life' - Tributes pour in for beloved lollypop lady who died aged 91

School crossing warden Patricia Hunting, who was always ‘armed with pockets full of sweets and a friendly smile', has passed away at the age of 91, City of Wolverhampton Council has announced. 

Patricia “Pat” Hunting, described as always being “armed with pockets full of sweets and a friendly smile,” served the community for nearly five decades.

She became a familiar and reassuring presence on Pond Lane after joining the council in 1976, when responsibility for school crossing patrols passed from the police to local authorities. Pat had previously worked with the local police force.

For almost 50 years she guided pupils from SS Mary and John’s Catholic Primary Academy and Grove Primary School across the road near the junction with Caledonia Road, earning the affection of families across multiple generations.

In 2023, Pat was presented with a council long service award by former Mayor of Wolverhampton Dr Michael Hardacre and she continued to be employed by the council up until her death.

Today (December 5), Pat's family and City of Wolverhampton Council members have paid tribute to her as they announce plans for the public to be able to pay their respects. 

Paying tribute to her sister Joyce Evans, 88, said: "Pat absolutely loved her job, and she was loved by all the children, parents and grandparents – most of who she has also helped cross the road over the years.

“It wasn’t just a job to her it was her life, her love and her happiness and she always looked forward to seeing ‘her children’ as she would call them. 

“She was always armed with pockets full of sweets and no matter what the weather she wanted to do right by the children, as she always did with her family – she always told her grandchildren ‘I love you to the moon and back’ and she absolutely did. 

“All the family are heartbroken, and I am immensely proud to call her my sister, we will all miss her dearly.” 

Karen Till, School Crossing Patrol Supervisor at City of Wolverhampton Council, said “Pat viewed her role as a privilege, taking joy in seeing children smile and listening to their stories. 

“Many greeted her with hugs, and she proudly recalled helping multiple generations cross safely, including the great-grandchildren of those she first assisted. 

“Her dedication, warmth, and community spirit will never be forgotten. Pat loved her job wholeheartedly, and she was loved in return by children, parents, and grandparents alike.” 

Councillor Qaiser Azeem, City of Wolverhampton Council’s Cabinet Member for City Transport, added: “Patricia Hunting embodied the very best of public service. Her unwavering dedication and kindness touched countless lives. 

“Our thoughts are with Pat’s family, friends, and the entire school community at this difficult time.” 

Pat’s funeral is on Wednesday December 17 at Holy Trinity Church, Farrington Road, Ettingshall, starting at 1.30pm, with anyone welcome to attend. 

As a mark of respect, Pat’s funeral cortege will pause briefly at her crossing point at around 1pm on Wednesday, 17 December, allowing pupils and staff to bid her a final farewell.