Tributes flow for Amy “Pat” Cordwell of Yandina, Sunshine Coast

A Sunshine Coast grandmother has been remembered for her warmth, hardworking nature and beautiful character following her death this week.

Amy 'Pat' Cordwell at Yandina'a Historic House. Photo: John McCutcheon / Sunshine Coast Daily

A Sunshine Coast grandmother and “pillar of the community” has been remembered for her warmth, hardworking nature and beautiful character following her death this week.

Amy Patrica Cordwell, 76, died peacefully on Friday, September 27, surrounded by her family.

Mrs Cordwell grew up on a Yandina dairy farm owned by her grandparents, who were pioneers in the area.

She attended Kiamba State School, which closed in 1965, before working in a small bakery on Stevens St.

Her volunteer work began when the first of her four kids started school at Yandina State School.

There she started as the tuckshop convener and was later organiser of the school’s fundraising committee.

Her work in the community continued as she and her husband Garry started running his parents’ business, Cordwell’s Concrete, in the 1960s.

Amy "Pat" Cordwell with her great grandson Isaac. Picture – supplied.

The business still stands today, run by the couple and their four kids who also live in Yandina.

Mrs Cordwell received an Order of Australia Medal for her service to the community of Yandina in 2014.

In the past 40 years, Mrs Cordwell has managed to juggle being part of the foundation of the Yandina Scouts and Yandina Girl Guides in the ‘80s, the Yandina Historical Society in 1996 and the Yandina Chamber of Commerce in 1995.

She was a founding member and treasurer of the Yandina historic house and helped run the Yandina Street Fair.

Mrs Cordwell was diagnosed with uterine cancer three years ago and fought it off thinking she had beat it, only to find out again that it had travelled through her body.

Her grandson, Martin Cordwell, shared a heartfelt tribute following her death.

“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great Grandmother Amy Patrica Cordwell,” he said.

Amy "Pat" Cordwell. Picture – supplied.

“A pillar of our community, she touched countless lives with her unwavering love and dedication.

“Her exemplary hardworking character, warmth, and generosity will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

“What a strong leader and loving lady.”

He said his grandmother was not only a devoted family member but also a cherished friend and mentor to many.

“Her legacy of service, compassion, and community involvement will live on in our hearts forever,” Mr Cordwell said.

“Rest in peace, you have set an inspiring example for all of us, and the cherished memories we hold will stay with us forever. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”

Amy 'Pat' Cordwell at Yandina'a Historic House. Photo: John McCutcheon / Sunshine Coast Daily

A celebration of her life will be announced in coming days. Family, friends, and community members will be invited to attend as we come together to honour the life of such an extraordinary woman.

“She was a pillar of the community in Yandina and touched so many peoples lives,” her grandson said.

“She set the foundations of our business and lead the way for us building our company to what it is today, next year celebrating our 60th year in operation having four generations of family members within the business and a fifth generation who loved her.

“She could still be found in the office just recently still answering phone calls and getting about her business.”

Originally published as Tributes flow for Amy “Pat” Cordwell of Yandina, Sunshine Coast