Remembering Mrs Kelley Kupfer, patron of Strawberry Field
We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Strawberry Field Patron, Mrs Kelley Kupfer, who passed away on 16th April. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends at this time.
Kelley Kupfer was a patron of the original fundraising campaign, supporting The Salvation Army vision to make Strawberry Field the successful centre it is today. Kelley, a retired nurse from San Diego, USA made a second home in Liverpool and became a well-known figure in Woolton. As well as her support for Strawberry Field, Kelley owned and restored The Cottage at 120a Allerton Road where John Lennon once lived.
On hearing of her passing, Julia Baird, John Lennon’s sister and Honorary Patron of Strawberry Field reflected,
“My family first met Kelley Kupfer many years ago. It was a surprising encounter, as she had just bought The Cottage in Woolton, intending to renovate it in a retro manner. Kelley wanted to re-create The Cottage of our childhood, where John lived with our mother when he was two years old and then spent many happy times there as he was growing up with Mimi, just around the corner in Mendips.
“Kelley was assiduous in wanting The Cottage to be a fair representation and sought out the family to ensure that this happened.
So we were back in The Cottage with Wonder Woman. This is my name for that human dynamo. She asked many questions and listened well. Kelley has left one of John’s spaces as a brilliant legacy here in the UK. I am sure that there are similar stories and projects in her US life.
We are all glad to have met you, Kelley and to have been included in your vision for The Cottage. Thank you from John’s family here in Liverpool.”
Kelley was proud to support Strawberry Field, and at the time of her appointment said,
“The Salvation Army's Project at Strawberry Field is one that serendipitously combines both of my highest personal passions in life into one momentous, global offering. An offering, which will provide help and hope for some; and solace, tranquility and peace for others. All of this while honouring John Lennon's memory, sentiment and words. I am without doubt that John would approve and support this venture.”
On a recent return visit to the UK from her home in the USA, Kelley visited Strawberry Field and enjoyed the opportunity to see the centre she supported. Strawberry Field’s Mission Director Major Kathleen Versfeld said,
“I was pleased that Kelley seemed to love the new centre and the opportunity to celebrate its development with us. She was a gracious lady with a compassionate heart. Thank you, Kelley. You will be missed. Rest in peace.”
