Published Tuesday 28 July 2020 at 13:00
Tributes have been paid to Blackburn’s bestselling author and patron of Blackburn Library, Josephine Cox, following her recent sad passing.
Josephine, from a family of ten who lived in a cotton mill house, reflected much of her childhood in her writing.
She wrote more than 60 books that sold over 20 million copies worldwide.
Josephine visited her hometown regularly and always made time for her local fans. She passed away aged 82 on Friday, July 17.
Councillor Mohammed Khan, Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said:
Josephine was a fantastic writer who was very loyal to her hometown. She never forgot where she came from despite her global success.
She will always be remembered by the town. My thoughts are with Josephine’s friends and family.
Councillor Damian Talbot, Executive Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said:
My deepest sympathies go to Josephine’s family and friends.
Josephine was always a great supporter of Blackburn Library and our town is honoured to be associated with her work.
Blackburn with Darwen Libraries also paid tribute to Josephine:
Staff across Blackburn with Darwen Library Service were saddened to learn of the recent death of author Josephine Cox.
Although globally famous, she never forgot her Blackburn roots and was a frequent visitor to the town. As well as making time for her many local fans, she was always keen to meet and talk to local school children, passing on stories about how things had changed since she grew up in the area and listening to their tales too.
She was a passionate advocate for libraries, and we were thrilled when she agreed to be a patron of the Blackburn with Darwen Library & Information Service in 2014. Our thoughts and sympathy are with her family and friends at this sad time.