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Last updated: 26 July, 2010
 
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Obituaries

Farewell to Tangent Friends
It is part of the rich tapestry of life that sadly none of us are immune to illness and
sometimes, inevitably, death. As you read our obituaries page, it may be that you
are recalling a friend with whom you have shared many happy times. These friends
have shared some of their precious life with us and have no doubt contributed to our
own happiness through fun and friendship in Circle and Tangent. Please spend a few
quiet moments to remember them and if possible spare some time to write a few
words or make a phone-call to their families to offer some comfort and support.
During difficult times it’s good to have long standing friends around you.

I’m sure for many of you, these friends will always be part of your Tangent memories.

With Sympathy
Gill

 

Options


You can shed tears that she is gone,
Or you can smile because she has lived.
You can close your eyes and pray the she’ll come back,
Or you can open your eyes and see all she has left.
Your heart can be empty because you cannot see her,
Or it can be full of the love you shared.
You can turn your back on tomorrow and live for yesterday,
Or you can be happy for tomorrow and live for the future.
You can remember her and ache that she has gone,
Or you can cherish her memory and let her live on.
You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back,
Or you can do what she would want,
smile, open your eyes, love and go on.


Please notify all obituaries first to the National Editor who will then pass them for publication on the web site.

Should you wish a photo included in an obituary please email a suitable picture to the webmaster@tanget-clubs.org

Joyce Jones - Erdington 100

Joyce had been a very active member of Erdington Tangent Club for many years, she died early in May this year and will be greatly missed by her many friends.

Jul'10

Pat Selby - Rotherham 43

It is with great sadness that we have to report the sudden death of Pat Selby on 1 June 2010, aged 87. Pat had been a staunch member of Rotherham Ladies Circle, serving both as Chairman of Rotherham, and Chairman of Area 22, before moving into RotherhamTangent, where she continued to be fully involved in all aspects, serving as Chairman in 1984-1985. Her friendship and support will be sorely missed by us all.

Jun'10

Bea Graham - First in Ireland 140

First in Ireland Tangent 140 is saddened to report the death at the age of 84 of one of our longest serving and hard working members. Bea Graham was a member of Armagh Ladies Circle before joining Tangent in 1969, just a year after the foundation of First in Ireland Tangent 140, which, as its name implies was the first Tangent club in the Emerald Isle, made up of ex Ladies Circlers who had reached the " life begins at 40 " stage.

Bea was a teacher by profession, a larger than life personality, who threw herself into everything with which she was involved. She had a large range of interests, from craftwork which included Carrickmacross lace, to church activities and was a member and supporter of the local Armagh museum. She was President of our club on 3 occasions in 1978, in1986 and again in 2006 and a regular attender at all our meetings and events.

She is survived by her husband Jim to whom she was married for 54 years, her son Colin and daughter Linda, and 4 much loved grandchildren , to all of whom we extend our deepest sympathy.

Jun'10

Jean Herbert - Nuneaton 510

It is with great sadness that Nuneaton Tangent 510 announces the death of Jean Herbert, on the 27th March 2010.

Jean was a longstanding and active member who will be greatly missed.

June'10

Delia Orbell - Tring & District 455

It is with great sadness that Tring & District Tangent announce the death of Delia Orbell, on the 30th April 2010, after a long illness.

De had been a member of Tangent for many years after she came out of Tring & District Ladies Circle. She was Chairman of Tangent twice, in 1989-90 and 2007-8 and was also Secretary for a number of years.

De was an ambassador for Tangent, always welcoming new members warmly, and keeping in touch with her many friends from Circling days in the area. She was also part of the group of Tring Tangent members who encouraged the ladies in Mosbach to form the first Ladies Circle in Germany. There will be many ladies in Mosbach who will be saddened by the news of her death.

De was a very positive, warm loyal person, who was wonderfully organised with a superb memory for faces and names, - taught by her mother that ‘if you can’t say something nice – best say nowt’ and she lived that edict! No-one in Tangent can remember De getting cross but her daughter assures us that she could get cross when she and her brother were teenagers.

Throughout her illness De remained positive and whenever anyone asked how she was feeling she would always reply ‘I’m fine’. Since diagnosed with Cancer in January 2006, De was cared for by the nurses of The Iain Rennie Hospice at Home, and for the last two weeks of her life at the St. Francis Hospice in Berkhamsted. Her cheerful courage, and her determination to live life to the full throughout her illness, was an example to us all and she will be greatly missed by all her friends in Tangent.

Our thoughts are with De’s children, Stephanie and Keith, and their families.

May'10

Doreen Watt - Liverpool Childwall190

1924-2010

It is with much sadness that Liverpool Childwall report the passing of Doreen Watt on the 17th March. Doreen joined Circle in 1963 and held the offices of Chairman, Secretary and Extension before transferring to Tangent where she became Chairman, and then National Secretary from 1974 to 1976
Doreen was a most valued member of Tangent who will be greatly missed by Husband Brian, Son Alex and Daughter in Law Lindsay, and many friends and family.

Apr'10

Joyce Irene Buss - Horley & District 386

8th July 1928 – 18th June 2009

Following a short battle with cancer Joyce, aged 80, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. She was an enthusiastic and reliable member of Circle and a founder member of Horley & District Tangent No.386, taking on the role of Chairman 3 times in 1978-79, 1983-84 and 1996-97 as well as holding various other posts within the club.

She fully supported Round Table and 41 Club events and was always eager to dress up for carnivals or be just as happy providing tea & cakes – she was a great cook.

She was a very busy lady, being an active member of many other local organisations. Joyce had an endless amount of energy and we were privileged to share in her friendship.We offer our sympathies to her husband Brian, a 41 Club member, and her family that were so important to her. As friends, we will miss her fun and laughter.

Apr'10

Marjorie Bennett - Bletchley Tangent 111

Marjorie, a founder and honorary life member of our club, sadly passed away in January 2010. We have many happy memories of her years in Tangent; and will be especially remembered for her hats.

Apr'10

Mary Williamson - Aberdeen Tangent Club 99.

The members of Aberdeen Tangent were deeply saddened by Mary's death in January 2010. Mary was a keen and enthusiastic member of both Ladies Circle and Tangent and loved to be involved in all our activities.  She was Chairman of Tangent in 1981-82 and a regular attendant at meetings until 2004 when illness prevented her from coming along.  However, when we visited her, she was always interested to hear news of Tangent and always enjoyed reading the Tangent magazine.  We have many happy memories of Mary and are very grateful for the contribution she made to our Club.

Apr'10

Brenda Smith - Beverley Tangent 225

It is with deep regret that we inform you of the death of Brenda Smith a member of Beverley Tangent for many years.

Apr'10

Shirley Davis - Wrekin Tangent 83

We are very sad to announce the death of one of our members. Mrs Shirley Davis.

Shirley joined Ladies Circle in the 1960,s becoming Circle Chairman and then Area 27 Chairman. She then became a active member of Wrekin Tangent and also served as our Chairman.

We have lost a very dear friend, who is now at peace after a short illness. She was married to Barry for 53 years and leaves 3 children and grandchilden.

We are so grateful for her huge contribution to both Circle and Tangent.

Apr'10

Marjorie Buchanan - Clevedon & District 195

Marjorie was a very enthusiastic member of Ladies Circle and Tangent; having held many offices she became Tangent Chairman in 1985.

She enjoyed playing sports, especially tennis. Her favourite football team was Manchester United and in later years she enjoyed playing bridge.

Marjorie had not enjoyed good health for the last few years, but was always her usual smiling self, even during her last short illness.

Marjorie died on 2nd March and leaves husband Andrew, son Ian and two grandchildren. She will be sadly missed.

Mar'10

Betty Emanuel - Fareham Tangent 92

It is with sadness that Fareham Tangent 92 announce the sudden death of Betty Emanuel. Betty was our Chairman in 1974-5 and our 'numbers secretary' for  many years. She was an active member and rarely missed a meeting right upto her untimely passing and she will be sadly missed. She was a supporter and long standing committee member of the local branch of the NSPCC.

Our thoughts and sympathy go out to her husband Gerry and daughter Jane and family.

Mar'10

Rosemary Lewis - Bournemouth Tangent No.1

Rosemary was both Chairman and Area Chairman of Ladies Circle before moving to Bournemouth. She became President of Bournemouth Tangent No.1 in 1983-1984 and was a wonderful President under very difficult personal circumstances.  Rosemary was always on hand to help, for many years acting as treasurer and also played an active role on the committee within Tangent.  She also enjoyed sport being an active member of the tennis club and more recently a keen golfer.

Our last memories of Rosemary were at our Diamond Jubilee Lunch on 20 February, looking as smart as ever in black and white, so happy and well after her holiday in South Africa with her husband Colin.

Rosemary died on 10 March much loved wife and mother and grandmother to nine grandchildren and great friend to many and a much loved Member of Tangent.  She'll be greatly missed.

Mar'10

June Gould - Loughton Tangent Club 361. 

June died January 2010 and was a dear and treasured friend to all Loughton members.  June will be greatly missed.

Feb'10

Jane Rastall - Chepstow & District Tangent Club 628

Passing Friends

It is with great sadness that Chepstow Tangent announce the sudden death of Jane after a short illness at the age of 64 on the 26th June 2009.

Jane was an enthusiastic member of Ladies Circle having been Secretary, Treasurer and then Chairman. She was also a founder member of Tangent
and Chairman twice. 

Fun loving, she was a vibrant lady who would do anything to help others. Her family was hugely important to her. 

Jane leaves behind her husband Guy, who is very involved with 41 Club, three children and six grandchildren. We shall miss her enormously.

Angela Deaton Secretary/imm Past Chairman.

Jan'10

Nan Shepley - Batley Tangent 670

It is with sadness that The Tangent Club of Batley announce the death of Mrs. Nan Shepley on the 30th January 2009. Nan was a Founder Member of
the Club and served as Chairman, she was loved by all who knew her and will be missed.

Eileen Hartley

Jan'10

Barbara Klitz - Lymington and District Tangent 336

Members of Lymington and District Tangent Club are very sad to announce the sudden death of Barbara Klitz, in her 85 th year. Barbara and her late
husband Bill first joined Circle and Table in the West Country, and Barbara joined Lymington Tangent Club in 1993 when they moved here for their
retirement. Barbara was an enthusiastic member, always pleased to support the Club whenever possible, and she very rarely missed a meeting or a
social event. Barbara was also a member of U3A, the W.I. and was a regular attender and helper at her local church - a very busy lady.

We have lost a very good friend, and our sympathies go out to her son, Nigel, daughter,Wendy, and their families.

Jan'10

Phyllis Shipp - Southampton Tangent 185

Phyllis Shipp joined Ladies Circle in the 1950’s and being a most active member held most offices to become Circle Chairman in
1968. Calling on her experience in banking, she became Area Treasurer soon after.

On transferring to Tangent, Phyllis again graduated through the positions of Club Secretary, Treasurer, then Chairman before
becoming involved at National level where she held the post of National Treasurer between 1998 and 2001.

She was a most enthusiastic member and frequently arranged special club occasions and was still Club Treasurer right up to the
time of her death. Phyllis leaves a son, a daughter, five grand children and a great grandchild; she was an inspiration to us all and
will be sadly missed.

Jan'10

Jean Fathers - Ripley No.158

It is with great sadness that we report the death of Jean, a well loved member of Ripley No.158. Jean was a founder member and Past  Chairman of both
Ripley Ladies Circle and Ripley Tangent Clubs.

Before her illness, Jean showed such enthusiasm for life, travel, her  family and her club. We, her friends, will miss her.

Our hearts go out to her husband, Eric, her children Steven and Julie and her grandchildren.

Her great friend and fellow Tangent member, Lena Edwards

Dec''09

Jean Brown - Whickham & District Tangent 189

Who died 16 May 2009. In memory of our dear friend Jean, a Tangent member for 40 years and Circler before that, a quiet lady with a huge presence
and deep humour - Jean you are greatly missed.

Dec''09

Ann Smith  -  Leyland Tangent Club 234

To have friends you must first be a friend and Ann was certainly a friend to many, she died peacefully on 31st October 2009 after treatment for cancer for
nearly two years and will be sadly missed by all members of Leyland Tangent Club. Ann was an enthusiastic Ladies Circler and equally so as a Tangent
member and Chairman in 1986/87.  She was the first to offer help to anyone, the first to make cakes or lemon curd, the first to put her name down to
visit anywhere (especially if it involved eating) and the sort of person if you sat next to her you knew you were in for an enjoyable evening.  Sincere
condolances to her lovely family and we all miss you Ann.

Nov''09

Anne Bradley - Rotherham Tangent Club 43

It is with great regret that we have to report the death of Anne Bradley on 26 September 2009, following a long battle with illness. Anne had been a
regular member of Tangent since 1973, taking the chair during 1987-88, and will be sadly missed by all who knew her.

If I should go before the rest of you
break not a flower nor inscribe a stone.
Nor when I'm gone speak in a Sunday voice
but be the usual selves that I have known.
Weep if you must,
parting is hell
but life goes on
so sing as well.

(This poem was on the Order of Service at the Service of Thanksgiving for Anne) Liz Woffenden, Secretary.

Nov''09

Margaret Price - High Wycombe Tangent 170

Margaret PriceIt is with great sadness that we announce the death of our dear friend Margaret on 7 th October 2009, aged 74. Margaret was very
active within Ladies Circle and then Tangent. She was Chairman in 1982-83. Her fellow members are grateful to have had the
privilege of her companionship over so many years and will greatly miss but not forget her sunny personality and thoughtful
kindness. All our thoughts are with her family at this sad time.

Oct' '09

Betty Kelly - Alsager Tangent 299

It is with great sadness that Alsager Tangent Club report the passing away of Betty Kelly.
Betty was a founder member of Alsager Ladies Circle and Tangent Club.  She was Chairman and Secretary of both and most supportive and
enthusiastic about all activities connected with Ladies Circle and Tangent.

Betty served in the ATS during the War, was Clerk to the Governors of the Grammar School her daughters attended and her support for the Cancer
Research Campaign covered 30 years.  She will be remembered for her ever-ready smile and her friendship.

We have lost a very good friend and our sympathies go to her daughters Debbie and Ali and son Philip and 8 grandchildren.

Chris Peake

Oct' '09

Jane Evans - Portsmouth and Southsea 44

Founder Secretary of the Assocation and President 1968-69It is with deep regret that I have to inform you of the death of Jane Evans.
Jane joined Ladies Circle in 1948 and also later became an active member of Tangent, both in Portsmouth and Southsea Clubs.
In 1965 she was elected founder Secretary of the Association of Tangent Clubs and worked tirelessly for three years in the early formation of the
National Association.
In 1968 she was elected Chairman of the Association (as it was then) attending many meetings with other Tangent Clubs and Ladies Circle.
For sixty six years she was a devoted wife and mother, supporting Denis endlessly in his activities in Round Table and 41 Club.
She made many, many friends and will be sadly missed by all.
She died on 30 August 2009

Oct' 09

Jill Nation - West Forest Tangent  553

It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Jill Nation aged 51 following a long illness with breast cancer.  Jill joined West Forest Circle in
1997 and was Chairman in 2001-2 and in 2002-3.  In 2004, Jill joined West Forest Tangent and served as Chairman in 2008-9.  We will all miss her
enthusiasm, loyalty, friendship and positive attitude.  
Our thoughts are with her husband Mike and their children, Edward and Philippa.

Sep' '09

Peggy Baker - Milford Haven 704

It is with great sadness that Milford Haven Tangent report the death of Peggy on 19 th July 2009, aged 84. A founder member, Peggy was a very popular
in Tangent and had held the offices of Treasurer in 1989-1990 and Chairman in 1990-1991. Peggy had been a staunch supporter of both Tangent and
Ladies Circle over many years as well as being a member of many other organizations. She was a regular at Tangent meetings and was present only a
few days before being admitted to hospital, where she passed away some 2 weeks later. Our sympathies go to her daughter Christine and son Derek
and their families and also her sister Winnie.

Sep '09

Shelagh Walker - Minehead 216

It is great sadness we report the death of our secretary Shelagh Walker on 23rd May after a long and brave fight against Ovarian Cancer.  Shelagh had
been a very active member for many years and had served as Chairman in 1993-94 and 2006-07.  Even during her illness her thoughts were always for
others and she remained involved with Tangent to the very end.  A kind, warm and generous person who we shall all miss greatly.  Our thoughts are with
Roy and her family at this sad time.

Aug' '09

Valerie Wood - Brownhills & District  364

It is with sadness that we share with you the news of the peaceful passing away of Valerie on 4th July 2009.  She was a member of Brownhills &
District Ladies Circle and Brownhills & District Tangent Club for many years.  She had recently become a more active member of our Club and then was
given the shattering news that she had an aggressive form of cancer.  She fought its onset with great dignity and courage.  She undertook an alternative
therapy, which gave her encouragement as she felt in control of her destiny.  At this time she delighted in her grandson Teddy (Edward) and spent as
much time with him and her family as she could.  Valerie was a committed Humanist and carried out services in this role, sharing people's joys and
sadness.  She was a lovely lady and our thoughts are with husband David, son Alex and daughter Clare and their families at this difficult time.

Aug' '09

Margaret Springett - Maidstone 14

It is with deepest sadness that Maidstone Tangent, No. 14, reports the death of Margaret Springett on 20th May 2009.  Margaret had battled
courageously with leukaemia since its diagnosis in October 2008, but her death was very unexpected and a tremendous shock to her family and
friends. 

Margaret was a very kind and gentle person and a devoted and loyal member of Tangent - and  Circle before that.  She held various offices, including
Chairman, all of which she carried out with superb efficiency and enthusiasm.   She was a wonderfully warm-hearted friend, always ready to help.  She
will be hugely missed by us all.  Our thoughts are with Mike, her husband, and her son and daughter.

Aug' '09

Faith Burt - Minehead 216

Minehead Tangent are sad to announce the death of past member Faith Burt on 31st March aged 78, after a period of ill health.  Faith had been a
Founder Member and Past Chairman of both Minehead Ladies Circle and Tangent and her knowledge and support to the clubs over the years were
invaluable. We offer our sympathies to John and her family.

Aug' '09

Audrey Bodkin - Farnham 469

Farnham Tangent, No. 469, would like to advise of the death of Audrey Bodkin in May 2009, aged 75 years. Audrey was a Founder Member and Past
Chairman of Farnham Tangent, and will be much missed by her family and friends. Jennie Harding, Secretary.

June '09

Dorothy Lee - Diss and District 821

Dorothy Lee, a Founder Member of Diss & District Tangent Club and Inner Wheel, unexpectedly passed away on 7 May 2009.
Dorothy remained a committed and stalwart member having held various offices during the 18 years since the Club's formation. Her kindness and natural
fellowship will be sadly missed by all.Sheila True Hon Secretary

June '09

Betty Sprake - Portsmouth and Southsea Tangent No 44

It is with great sadness that Portsmouth and Southsea Tangent No 44 report the death of Betty Sprake on 17th April 2009. Betty was always a very
bright and enthusiastic member and was Chairman 1999-2000. She will be much missed and we all send our sincere sympathy to her husband Tom,
son John and all her family.

In friendship, Jackie Gauntlett.

may '09

Judy Richardson - Whitchurch and District 439

It is with great sadness that Chairman, Claire, and members of Whitchurch Tangent report the untimely death of our member, Judy
Richardson, on 15 th April 2009.Judy joined Ladies Circle in Stirling in 1975. After moving south she joined Chester Ladies Circle
and later their Tangent Club. At a similar time she made the most of living on the county border by also joining Whitchurch Circle
and then Tangent.

During her Tangent career she had held many posts including Chairman. Throughout her Circle/Tangent career Judy supported the
clubs to the full. She rarely missed a meeting or event, especially if it involved dressing up and singing, and usually collected the
trophy, each year, for best attendance. We were happy to have her with us at 11 of the 12 meetings during the last year and she
only missed the AGM the evening immediately before her passing. An amazing feat as she had been very poorly, with breast cancer
for several months after a fight with the disease for almost 15 years.

She was an inspiration to us all. She will be missed by us all.We offer all of our heart felt sympathies to her husband of over 40 years, Neil, and their
daughters, Ruth, Rachel and Sarah and their 6 grandchildren.

may09

Elizabeth Harvey - Maidstone 14

Sadly passed away suddenly in March. Founder member of the club. She will be greatly missed
Barrie Poole - Gillingham & Shaftesbury No.339

It is with enormous sadness that we announce the passing of Barrie who lost her fight against Ovarian Cancer on April 9th. Throughout her battle she
remained utterly dignified and courageous; never lost her cutting wit and sense of humour, and was a complete inspiration to all who knew her. She will
be sorely missed.
Dorothy Painton – Rutland Tangent 75

It is with great sadness we report the sudden death of Dorothy Painton who was born and grew up in Whitley Bay in Northumberland. She married her
husband Colin, who later became National President of 41 Club, and they finally settled in Leicestershire after having lived in several parts of England.
She had been such a committed member of Rutland Tangent Club for about 30 years and became President in the course of time.

She was also an accomplished artist and was a very active participant in the activities of her own village. Dorothy was a very caring person who made
everyone feel special. She was full of life and lit up a room with her personality. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

Daphne Lovering, Rutland Tangent Club.

 

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