We were shocked to hear the sad news that

GILL ALLEN (nee DOLPHIN)

had died during an operation on 23rd September 2004.

The following is an extract from the eulogy written and read at Gill’s funeral by the Rev. Chris Cousins, St. Andrew’s, Rochford. Our thanks to the Rev. Cousins for his permission to include this in our newsletter.

Gill (Jilly) was born in Ilford during the war. All too quickly her life was touched with sadness as her mother died when she was only 13 and she took on her first big responsibility; she was now not just a sister to Brenda but in effect a mother too. At the time of her Mother’s death Gill was attending RCHS where she excelled both academically and in sport, representing the school in tennis, hockey and netball. In the sixth form she became Head Girl.

From school Gill went to College, supporting her own endeavours through holiday work. She also took up county sports, particularly lacrosse. Her first teaching post was in Welwyn Garden City. While there she represented Hertfordshire at cricket and was offered a tour place in the England Ladies cricket team as wicket keeper. Sadly funds were not available so she was unable to take up that place.

You did not need to be told that Gill was a school teacher, nor did you need to be told when you had said the wrong thing or not come up to the mark in some way, -bless her! Gill was what you call straight!

The totally self sacrificing love which Gill demonstrated as a Mother was reflected in her teaching, particularly with difficult students. Students who others might have given up on were given a fresh start, encouragement and respect, which led in turn to achievement previously considered impossible.

There was the fun Gill too, a sense of humour and a great sense of fun which were such an armament amidst many struggles. Gill liked lists, the Times crossword, the odd tipple and a game of Bridge, backed by the ability to play it and an ever present readiness to replay some past Bridge hand with the benefit of hindsight! She also loved cats, English cats, Tenerife cats, rescue cats, in fact any cat, it did not really matter. Gill was generous, always ready to share her home with someone in need of a home, always ready to give to others, ready to get on and quietly do what was necessary for those in need.

Gill was always exhilarated and content when out in the open air, whether at the helm of a canal boat, sailing, in the mountains of Canada, or playing sports; the freedom of fresh air would lift the weight of responsibilities, anxieties and stresses.

Gill’s life greatly enriched the lives of those around her; her life in turn was enriched by others, particularly her husband, and also by special friends who touched her life and enabled her to give so generously in response. Thank you Jilly for being you.

At the AGM we began a collection in memory of Gill to be donated to the charity, LUPUS UK, which is based in Romford. If you would like to contribute to this, send cheques or postal orders to the FFBS, either made out to the charity or to the Friends. If the latter we will send an FFBS cheque to cover all donations, cash and cheques.