BHA Honorary Life President Passes Away

Barnsbury HA were saddened to learn that our Honorary President, Julie Kettle, passed away last month aged 77.

Julie was BHA’s very first full-time Housing Manager and was integral in welcoming residents to their new homes, which even included allocating our very own Jean & Richard Bull their first BHA home!

“Without people like Julie, BHA would have gotten off to a poor start. Our primary objective was to help people in need. Managing this once building was complete became the priority and Julie did this well.” David Baker, BHA’s first Chairman.

“On behalf of the Board of Barnsbury Housing Association, I want to express our deep sadness at the news of Julie’s passing and to pay tribute to the very full and positive contribution she has made as a prominent member of the BHA community since the very early days of our existence. She has served us loyally as a member of staff, a prominent voice on behalf of residents, tenant Board member and, latterly, as our Honorary Life President. To all these roles, Julie brought a high degree of energy, commitment to the Association, good humour and a strong sense of fairness in dealing with resident issues. We shall miss Julie’s presence on the estate, while at the same time looking back and greatly valuing her special contribution to the BHA legacy.” Martyn Waring, BHA Chair.

BHA were delighted that Julie was able to attend our 50th Anniversary celebrations last year at the Screen on the Green (pictured below) and take part in a Q&A session, answering questions and telling stories about the early days of BHA.