Colleague Alison Rice described Joan as a “remarkable woman” who helped thousands of families spend quality time together amid, or away from, challenging personal circumstances.

The charity was founded by Joan and husband Patrick in 1975, providing short breaks for those in greatest need yet with the least means.

“Without Joan, and her husband Patrick, there would be no Family Holiday Association,” said the charity in its own tribute.

“Since 1975, her compassion, sense of public spirit and unstoppable determination have enabled thousands of families to spend quality time together away from challenging circumstances."

Trustee and former charity chair Rice said: “I have no doubt everyone who met Joan thought she was a remarkable woman. I certainly did.

"Her selflessness and steadfast resolve will continue to be an inspiration to us all as we continue her legacy.

“Rather than complain about the lack of breaks available to struggling families, Joan and her husband Patrick turned their outrage into solid action and it’s thanks to them both that we can be proud of how many families we’ve helped since 1975.

“The thoughts of everyone at the charity are with Joan’s family at this difficult time. We offer them our deepest sympathies.”

Joan and Patrick set up the charity after several years coming to terms with the loss of their daughter at just three months.

At this time, they also had a three-year-old daughter and were struggling to make ends meet after Patrick lost his job, leaving barely enough money to last a week, let alone go on holiday.

However, an opportunity to take a short break in Southend arose, and the experience changed their lives.

Both Joan and Patrick lost their fathers at a young age, and knew the importance of the happy memories of family holidays they cherished.

With support from friends, neighbours and other well-wishers, they created the Family Holiday Association to help others create these memories.

Four decades later, the charity has helped nearly 50,000 families access much-needed day trips or nights away from home.

Joan was also an honorary life member of the Red Cross, for whom she worked for more than 30 years, running the trolley service at the Royal Free Hospital.

She served seven years on Hampstead Community Health Council and was also a Samaritan, earning the British Empire Medal in 1986.

After her husband, Patrick, sadly passed away in 2008, she spent her final years being cared for by her daughter, Pauline, with support from her other daughter, Pamela, at home in North London, both of whom survive her.