Scott Mitchell, the husband of the beloved Dame Barbara Windsor, finds himself still connected to her spirit years after her heartbreaking battle with Alzheimer’s disease. The iconic actress, famed for her roles in the Carry On films and as Peggy Mitchell in EastEnders, passed away in 2020, leaving a void in the hearts of many.
Mitchell speaks of a continuing presence, a subtle reassurance that Windsor remains close. He recounts a recent trip to Gibraltar where, lost within a hotel, he unexpectedly found himself in the “Windsor Room.” It was a moment that resonated deeply, a gentle nudge from beyond.
The coincidences haven’t stopped there. A leisurely housebarge trip revealed another striking connection – the boat was named “Little Babs,” a tender nickname for Barbara. As if guided by an unseen hand, another vessel in the marina bore the name “Peggy,” a nod to her unforgettable EastEnders character.
Regular visits to her memorial at Golders Green Crematorium are not occasions for sorrow, but for conversation. Mitchell believes that death isn’t an ending, but a transition, and that the essence of those we love remains with us. He shares quiet moments, offering updates and simply talking to her.
The pain of witnessing Windsor’s decline remains vivid. He’s haunted by the terror he saw in her eyes as Alzheimer’s stole her memories and her sense of self. The disease, caused by plaques and tangles disrupting brain function, robbed her of recognition, a devastating experience for both of them.
Early symptoms of Alzheimer’s can include difficulty remembering recent events, struggling to find the right words, and disorientation in familiar surroundings. Recognizing these signs is crucial for early intervention and support.
Despite his own grief, Mitchell continues to champion the cause that became so important to Windsor in her final years: improved dementia care. He understands that while he can’t solve the problem alone, every effort to raise awareness and provide support makes a difference.
He actively fundraises for Alzheimer’s Research UK, even completing a marathon alongside his former EastEnders colleagues. This dedication stems from a promise to honor Windsor’s legacy and fight for a future where others don’t suffer as she did.
Mitchell has found companionship again with Tanya Franks, a former co-star of Windsor’s. He faced criticism for moving forward, but he insists Windsor herself would have wanted him to find happiness. She encouraged him to grieve, then to embrace life again.
Franks provides a safe space for him to remember and speak about Windsor whenever the need arises, offering a reciprocal understanding and support. He acknowledges that the pain of loss never truly disappears, but that we learn to carry our loved ones with us, cherishing their memory every day.
