Memorial garden keeps Allan’s memory alive
Allan Healey will be remembered for his invaluable contribution to restoring Padfield Park to its former glory.
THE number of people who came out to celebrate the life of Allan Healey was a true reflection of his compassionate heart.
Healey, who passed away two weeks ago, fought to restore Padfield Park to its former glory after it turned into a den for criminal and drug dealing activity.
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The kind-hearted Healey stayed next to the park and went the extra mile to ensure the park was kept clean.
To honour his memory, the Parks Department decided to create a memorial garden for his invaluable contribution to the park.
People gathered with flowers on Saturday, 12 June to pay respect to the fallen hero
His wife, Debi, said her husband was passionate about helping the community and was popular, especially among the youngsters.
Growing up in a foster home, Healey was passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of others.
“This park was like his baby. Before he intervened, the park was neglected, there was lots of crime activities and dealing of drugs,” said Debi.
With help from The Parks Department, Metro Police and Pinetown Central CPF, the Padfield Park Neighbourhood Watch and community members, a fence was put up.
“After the fence was put up, families and friends are now able to gather for picnics and children can play peacefully in a clean and safe area.
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“He worked hand-in-hand with Wendy Mkhize from the Parks Department in Lahee Park to clean this park and they had more plans. He was also responsible for opening and closing it,” said Debi.
His family and friends said they would remember Healey for his unconditional love.
“Allan was kind, he gave us hope which is the reason others referred to him as Themba (a Zulu name for hope). He showed everyone unconditional love, he was like a father to us,” said Njabulo Zaca who also came to pay his respects.
Debi thanked everyone for the support and the Parks Department for making a beautiful garden in honour of her husband.
“We truly appreciate it. They made two gardens, one for Allan and another one for the community,” she said.
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