The Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA) has announced that one of the longstanding executive committee members of the Boots Pharmacists’ Association (BPA) has passed away (July 8).

Rhona Bennett was treasurer for the Boots union, where she “made a significant contribution” during her time in the role, the PDA said.

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It added that after the BPA’s merger with the PDA Union this year, Bennett “continued to oversee the BPA’s financial management to ensure an orderly closedown of BPA’s accounts and smooth transfer to the new arrangements”.

PDA Union general secretary Mark Pitt said “everyone at the PDA sends heartfelt condolences to Rhona’s family”, adding that her loss will also be felt by “those who worked alongside her for many years at the BPA”.

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 “We are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear colleague and friend Rhona” who was “the stalwart of our association”, former BPA chair Khuram Ahmad said.

“[Bennett was] the quiet strength behind every well-planned event, every smoothly run meeting, and every member who felt supported and heard”.

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Ahmad added: “As our treasurer, she kept our accounts in impeccable order, but her contributions went far beyond the numbers.

“She worked tirelessly, not for recognition, but for the good of the members, her colleagues, and the organisation she cared so deeply about.

“Her legacy of dedication, kindness, and unwavering commitment will not be forgotten.”