Tributes have been paid to Ipswich mum Jane Croft who has lost her brave battle against cancer. Jane, 47, died on May 28 with her loving husband Shaun by her side.

Ipswich Star: Jane Croft and husbandJane Croft and husband

Jane, 47, died on May 28 with her loving husband Shaun by her side.

She was a mum, stepmum, sister, aunt and great aunt and worked at Aviva in St Helen’s House for 20 years before moving to the speech and language therapy department at Suffolk Healthcare.

Brother-in-law Steve Croft said: “She was an amazing friend to all who knew her. Cancer never defined Jane. Jane defined Jane.”

Jane was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006 when she discovered a lump on her breast.

It was the day her husband was celebrating his 40th birthday. She kept the news from him until the next day, so as not to ruin his day.

Steve said: “That was so typical of Jane, always putting other people’s feelings first.”

Jane’s cancer returned in 2012 and this was when her battle began.

Steve added: “Jane always remained positive in all she did and in life. Jane held and organised garden parties as a fundraiser for St Elizabeth Hospice, inspiring family and friends to help out on the day.”

She encouraged Steve, of John Oliver salons, to use his talents with hair on wigs, which helped women going through chemotherapy to still feel feminine and not a victim of cancer.

“Jane also supported other women and friends who had cancer by remaining so positive and driven, knowing what her outcome would be, living life to the full,” her brother-in-law added.

She also encouraged family and friends, including Shaun and Steve, to take part in the London to Brighton bike ride on June 15 in support of St Elizabeth Hospice.

They will now be doing the ride as a tribute to Jane. Taking part are Shaun Croft, Simon Barnes, Steve Croft, Gary Hughes, Martin Godley, Steve Clark, Allen Earl and Domenico Labella.