Obituary: Maureen Hunter

Recognized for her “exceptional kindness” and as a “giant in her field” Maureen Hunter, former editor of OT , died at the age of 78

It is with sadness that Optometry today reports on the death of Maureen Hunter, née Callender, a “well known and loved” figure in the optics industry and editor of OT between 1990 and 2006.

The specialist, who died of Parkinson’s disease at the age of 78, was honored and recognized as “famous for her exceptional friendliness and active support of many optical organizations”.

Hunter ran her own company, Word & Images, and produced newsletters for SightCare and the Worshipful Company of Spectacle Makers, of which she became a member. She was also active in the Vision Aid Overseas charity.

Having previously published a Scottish optometry magazine, Hunter was selected by the AOP to work on it OT and led the publication of an eight page newsletter based in Scotland to a fortnightly 50-70 page full color magazine near London.

Described as an “enthusiastic supporter” of optical training, Hunter was also a pioneer of the first online training and the OT Bookstore present at optical fairs and conferences.

Robina Moss, deputy editor of OT For 17 years, now the owner of Forward4Business, acknowledged: “I owe my 21 years in optics to Maureen, who was an extraordinary boss. She not only created a loyal and hardworking one OT Team, she made you part of her family. Not only did she secure her employees financially, she also gave them the feeling of being part of something special. Every employee birthday was celebrated and when someone had personal problems she was so helpful.

“There are many in optics who will always remember Maureen’s friendliness. My heart is with her family during this sad time. “

Describes Hunter as “a giant in his field,” Sarah Bradley, former OT Business Development Manager, said, “I first met Maureen in 1985 when she was a PR consultant for the Red Cross in Scotland, where I worked. She was a very special lady, very intelligent and motivated. ”

“Maureen was a woman who was passionate about optics and such an inspiration. She took pride in every publication she was responsible for and treated everyone she met with full respect, regardless of their circumstances, ”she added.

After working with Hunter for 12 years, formerly OTEditor-in-chief and now editor of Dispensing Optics, Nicky Collinson, said, “She was my first editor and taught me not only the arts and crafts of impartial, truthful journalism, but always putting the reader first.

“Maureen is a successful businesswoman who balanced work with fun and family. Her cheerful Scottish demeanor and sense of humor charmed everyone she met, ”added Collinson. “She inspired me as a woman and a journalist.”

Former colleagues expressed condolences to their sons Chris, Nik and Rod, their five grandchildren, and their family and friends.