Ely High School 1905-1972

IN MEMORIAM

If you can provide confirmed information that a former EHS pupil has died
please contact us, ideally with a published obituary.

The names on this page are in order of surname when at EHS

Argent, Jeanette d ca 2002

Clark, Doris (née Ashby). August, 1965. Doris Clark (née Ashby), in school 1920-1926, was killed in a motor accident on August 29th. Mrs. Clark trained as a teacher before marrying. She was an active member of the Ely High School Old Girls' Association and served on the Committee. Always a keen worker for the Girl Guide movement, she had been appointed Divisional Commissioner. She was an active social worker; she took part in the Meals on Wheels Movement and was a member of the Friends of Ely Cathedral. She is greatly missed by those who knew her and worked beside her.
from the 1965-66 Ely High School magazine

Caldwell, Ivy (née Atkin), accidentally killed, May 8 1955: from the EHS July 1956 magazine


Baird, Miss BR was appointed as French Mistress 1915 and when she retired in 1946 she had for seventeen years been Second Mistress. In retirement she played a key role in the Old Girls Association. She died on 30th November 1972 at her home in Bury St Edmunds.

Chudyk, Josie (née Barber) passed away on 20 August 2014 after a short illness: via Christine Fuller

Gibbon, Peggy (née Beeton): died 2019. Peggy was a local councillor in Soham and a regular attender at the Reunions with her friend Mary Cornwell, née Lee: via Christine Fuller

Lecompte, Cynthia Florence, née Barker: d October 1957, in school 1959-1954: from the May 1958 EHS magazine

Strawson, June (née Bent) of Downham Market, who had been to many Reunions until illness and infirmity prevented her attending about three years ago, died aged 86 on March 20th, 2015 peacefully at Holmwood House. Her funeral was at St Mary's Church, Bexwell on Monday March 30th at 2pm, followed by interment at Rouses Lane Cemetery, Downham Market: via Christine Fuller

Sotheran, Jackie (née Bidwell) d 14 May 2012 after a long battle with cancer: via her husband Harry: to be updated

Bishop, Molly Elizabeth, of Littleport Grange Nursing Home, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Wednesday February 23rd, 2011 aged 95 years. Her funeral was at St George's Church, Littleport on Wednesday, March 9th followed by interment in Littleport Cemetery. Molly was a pupil at EHS in the 1920s. She lived and taught in Littleport: via Christine Winter

Blake, Jeannette. Died in January 2018. Was in the July 1952 Twelfth Night. Ordinary Level Distinction in Art, Isle of Ely County Exhibition (Art, French); 1953-4 Prefect; 1954-5 Deputy Head Girl: went on to teach art in London before returning to the Ely area in her retirement: via Christine Fuller

Brook, Pamela (EHS Staff). Pamela Brook was another stalwart of Ely High School, died in Woking in October 2007. Ely was always an important place for her and she returned several times a year for over 40 years to renew friendships. Early last year she told me how pleased she was when her former pupils recognised her and stopped to speak. She too came to our Reunions in 2000 and 2005. She came to teach English at Ely High School in 1951 and stayed for 12 years before moving to a post at Woking Grammar School and later Woking Sixth Form Centre.

Always immaculate in appearance she commanded respect through the high standard of teaching that she brought to the school and the ability to control a large number of girls with just a look! As well as demanding perfection in grammar she opened up the world of classic novels, poetry and the works of William Shakespeare and coaxed many pupils into dramatic performances on stage.

Miss Brook also masterminded the removal of books from Bedford House to the new buildings in Downham Road as part of operation "shopping bag."

She remained interested in Ely after her move, visiting regularly and maintaining contact with many of her former pupils. She also travelled and enjoyed theatre visits to London and Stratford on Avon and it is fitting that her ashes will be taken to Stratford: "parting is such sweet sorrow" - Romeo and Juliet.

Wallace, Shirley (née Brown) started at our school in 1953 and attended several Reunions although incapacitated by multiple sclerosis. She passed away in December 2007.

Briggs, Lesley, in a car accident in the 1970s: via Rosemary Jennings (Askew)

James, Jennifer (née Brunt) Christine Fuller writes: Sadly I report the sudden death of a former classmate on May 31 2021, aged 79. Jenny was a Cambridge girl who travelled daily to Ely with many other pupils and was a kind, gentle and intelligent person. She was born in tragic circumstances as her father had died during the invasion of Singapore just weeks before she was born. He was a Staff Sergeant in the RAOC and is commemorated on the Singapore Memorial in Kranji War Cemetery in Singapore. Jenny had enjoyed coming to the last few reunions and will be sadly missed by our year group.

Dix, Ann (née Burrows) The 30th April Ely Standard had the death notice for Ann Dix née Burrows: "ANN DIX passed away peacefully at home on Saturday 18th April 2020. Dearly loved and sadly missed by all her family who will remember her with love and laughter." - via Christine Fuller


Hopkin, Leonita (née Caldwell) d 2018

Burling, Anne (née Cates), funeral at West Suffolk Crematorium on 30th March 2015. Age 71. Born in Wood Ditton. Worked for Roes the Jewellers and Pyes in Newmarket. Wrote magazine articles. Her stories for children were used by the BBC's Listen with Mother. Later worked at the Laureate and Fairstead House Schools. Brown Owl with 1st Newmarket Bownies for ten years and developed greater access for children with learning difficulties. Following the publication of her first book she opened a bookshop in Sun Lane, Newmarket, moving on to shop management at another bookshop and a whole food shop; had other retail jobs until retirement. Loved horse racing and owned a share in a racehorse. She leaves her husband Victor, daughter Lucy, son Robert and three grandchildren. Via Frank Haslam from the Newmarket Journal, 9 April 2015.

Sennitt, Dawn Rosa (née Chambers), d 12 August 2009, aged 68 years: of Haddenham, lately of Soham: via Christine Fuller (Bell)

Sallis, Gillian 'Jill' (née Chapman) in a car accident on Monday 19th November 2018, aged 77.  She was a founder member of Ely Sailing Club: d 2018: report in Ely Standard

Chapman, Ruby: d ca 2007

Waddington, Dorothy E (née Clarke): d 20 Oct 1955: from the EHS July 1956 magazine

Cooper, Florence Annie: d Feb 28 1956. EHS Staff
Miss Cooper taught music, both class singing and piano, in this School for many years, from 1925 until her retirement in 1949, after which she continued to take private pupils. She always took a great interest in the girls she taught, and in everything in the musical world. Many girls have cause for gratitude for the careful, individual tuition they received from her, and for her affection for them. She will be long remembered by all those who were her pupils and by those citizens of Ely who met her in connection with musical events.

Miss Tilly: During the early part of this year the school lost a former member of Staff and a devoted friend, in the passing of Miss FA Cooper. During the many years when she taught here she became endeared to many girls and especially to those who were her private pupils. We who knew her so well, were delighted that she was able to be one of the guests of honour at the Old Girls' Jubilee Luncheon last year. She will be sadly missed by many pupils and friends.
from the EHS July 1956 magazine

Cooper, Margery: her death became known to us in May 2022

Arnold, Doreen (née Cox): on 5 Jan 2015 Christine Fuller reported that she had been informed of Doreen's death over the festive period. Doreen had attended reunions for some years.

Few, Daphne (née Cropley) d 15 Jan 2021 aged 91: Dearly loved wife of the late Geoffrey, sister in law of Gerald and Ann. Funeral service at Wilburton Baptist Church on Monday February 1st followed by interment in the parish cemetery - Cambridge News 25 Jan 2021.
A native of Wilburton she became a teacher in Prickwillow and Haddenham: via Christine Fuller
    
Cross, Pauline d 15 Sep 10: born in Little Downham, would have entered EHS about 1947.

Crouch, Sheila, d 2009

Covey-Crump (LRAM), Angela Mary Kingsley: EHS Staff: died at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge on December 14 2005, aged 93. Angela who lived in Ely but was originally from Hampshire, was a teacher by profession. Her last two posts being at Ely High School and the City Of Ely College where she taught maths. [She joined the staff of EHS in the 1950s].

Angela supported many charities and was a keen member of the Ely Cathedral congregation and was on the church flower rota. A talented pianist who studied at the Royal Academy of Music, Angela played for most of her life at schools and she sang as well. In later life she played for local ballet classes. She also enjoyed playing and watching tennis.

Angela was the daughter of the late Captain Ayre so grew up with a naval background. After her retirement, she helped her husband Leo, to whom she was married for 60 years, with the WRVS Meals On Wheels service. Angela leaves two children, Peter and Anne and three grandchildren, Anthony, Elizabeth and Sarah. The funeral took place at Ely Cathedral on December 28 2005. Donations were made to the East Anglian Air Ambulance: source Eastern Daily Press January 6, 2006.

Harvey, Linda (née Cullen), of Littleport, "called home to be with her Lord on Tuesday 29th October 2013. Beloved wife, sister and precious Auntie. Private family service at the graveside on Monday 11th November 2013 followed by a Thanksgiving Service for Linda's life at West Row Baptist Chapel at 2pm." She attended EHS in the 1950s, had helped to add names to the 1959 School Photo and was at the 2011 Luncheon: via Christine Fuller (Bell)


Allen, Dorothy (née Day) died at home in Witchford on Saturday April 27th 2019, aged 93.  "Mum started attending Ely High School the year that Miss Tilly became Headmistress and she is pictured on the 1938 school photo."  Dorothy's funeral was held on Tuesday 7th May at St Andrews Church, Witchford: via her daughter Margaret Cockburn (née Allen) 59-66.

Defew, Miss Dorothy Gee Defe (English, Deputy Headmistress) 1934-64: died aged 74 on 21 November 1975

Laird, Patricia (née Dennis) died peacefully at home in Newmarket on January 29 2011, aged 66, after a battle with cancer. Born in Fordham, she attended Fordham Primary School and Ely High School, and was a keen athlete. After various jobs she was book-keeper with Stacey & Partners for 25 years, retiring in 2009. She was Treasurer of Newmarket Town Football Supporters Club. She is survived by her husband, two sons, mother and brother. Her funeral was at Fordham Congregational Church on February 11, 2011: seen in the Newmarket Journal, 17 March 2011

Dewar, Hilary (EHS Staff: Music), died since 2000: can anyone add details?

Dewey, Lois - 1930s - became a teacher, d 2003: via Andrew Martin, to whom she was a great grand aunt

Dewey, Winifred - 1930s - became a teacher d 2006: via Andrew Martin, to whom she was a great grand aunt

Driver, Anne - passed away on 28 July 2020 in Lincolnshire. She joined the local constabulary after leaving school and rose through the ranks to be a Superintendent with the Lincolnshire Police Force.

Retired Superintendent of Lincolnshire Police, formerly of Little Thetford, died peacefully on the 28th July 2020. She leaves a nephew Andrew, niece Louise, their families, and her many good friends. Funeral to be held in Lincoln. Donations if you wish, may be made in Anne's memory to St. Barnabas Hospice c/o Lincolnshire Co-operative Funeral Service, Tritton Road, Lincoln, LN6 7QY. Originally printed on August 13, 2020 in the Ely Standard: via Christine Fuller


Hardman, Pamela (née Easy): on 5 Jan 2015 Christine Fuller reported that she had been informed of Pamela's death over the festive period. Pamela had attended reunions for some years.

Evershed, Mollie was drowned at sea in 1944. She was a nursing sister aboard a hospital ship full of wounded men and when an explosion occurred and the ship began to sink, Mollie together with the Matron succeeded in carrying up to the deck about seventy stretcher cases. Finally however, Mollie was trapped below deck and went down with the ship [HMHS Amsterdam] off Juno Beach, Normandy on 7th August 1944. Mollie is commemorated on the 1939-45 section of Soham's Town War Memorial.

On 11th November 2019, Christine Fuller attended the Armistice Day gathering at Soham War Memorial where she placed a cross in memory of Mollie Evershed on behalf of the present EHS Old Girls.
It was inscribed with the following words around the poppy:

306582 Lt Sister Mollie Evershed QAIMNS in Remembrance of a quiet heroine

On the reverse:
Old Girls Of Ely High School remember Mollie Evershed who gave her life rescuing others on HMHS Amsterdam off Juno Beach, Normandy 7.8.44
Christine was accompanied by the husband of her niece, formerly Christine Tricker, who placed another cross from the family.

From the July 1945 issue of the School Magazine:

All Old Girls who were contemporaries of Mollie Evershed will hear with great regret of her death at sea on 7th August 1944.
Mollie was at the school in the years 1928-32. Afterwards she trained as a nurse at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. In 1943 she volunteered for the Queen Alexandra Imperial Nursing Service.
In August of last year, she was on a hospital ship full of wounded men. An explosion occurred and the ship began to sink but Mollie and the Matron succeeded in carrying up to the deck about seventy stretcher cases. Finally however, Mollie was trapped below deck and she went down with the ship.
Practical, steady, and reliable, Mollie was always eager to help in any way. She was energetic, lively, full of fun and friendly and popular with everyone in the school, both Staff and girls. We, who knew her and remember her, were grieved to hear of the loss of a young life, so full of promise, but we are also very conscious and proud of the heroism, devotion and sacrifice which she showed in that hour of her supreme testing.
We offer her parents, Flight-Sergeant R Evershed and Mrs Evershed, in their irreparable loss, the sympathy of all the members, past and present, of Ely High School.

She was posthumously awarded the King's Commendation for Brave Conduct:

Her name is on the British Normandy Memorial - which was officially opened on 6 June 2021 - the 77th Anniversary of D-Day.

Until then there had been no permanent British Memorial to the 22,442 men (and two women) who gave their lives during the D-Day landings and the Battle of Normandy. The Prime Minister and the President of France laid wreaths there during the ceremonies commemorating the 75th Anniversary of D-Day. 

Mollie's story is narrated by our Annual Luncheon organiser, Christine Fuller - please click here. We suggest you first read the page and then play the movie clip.

Since that was recorded Mollie has been identified on the 1929 School Photo (3/8, row 2 #4).  There has been a lot of media coverage, which includes photos provided by the family:

https://www.edp24.co.uk/news/mollie-evershed-norwich-nurse-normandy-named-british-memorial-1-6102401
https://www.elystandard.co.uk/news/family-share-pictures-of-d-day-soham-nurse-1-6099384
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/av/uk-england-cambridgeshire-48541538/d-day-two-female-nurses-honoured-among-22000-men
https://www.express.co.uk/news/uk/1136017/D-Day-tragic-story-two-heroic-nurses-died-Normandy
https://soham.ccan.co.uk/content/catalogue_item/mollie-evershed-d-day


Copsey, Iris  (née Firby) died in July 2019 of ovarian cancer. She was the widow of Tony Copsey and lived in Littleport. She was a sister of Jean Firby (see below): news of Iris and Jean via their sister Sandra.

Firby, Jean: died in 2018 of ovarian cancer. She started at EHS in 1953, transferring to the Mount School, York a year or two later, staying on in Yorkshire until her death. She was a sister of Iris Firby (see above).

Eden, Peggy: Marlene Peggy Eden (née Fleet) formerly of Isleham, Bottisham and Ipswich, passed away on Sunday October 19, 2008, after a long illness bravely borne. Beloved wife of Cyril, mother/mother-in-law of Susan and Dave, nanna of Eloise and sister of Doreen: via her brother-in-law, Fred Eden

Fletcher, Miss EE: Headmistress 1905-1929: aged 76, died 31 January 1947

Bailey, Mary (née Frost) who died on on 12 January 2020 was from Littleport though latterly from Sawston. Mary had attended many Reunions with others from the 1952 entry: via Christine Fuller

Freeman, Joyce died at the beginning of December 2020 in Phoenix, Arizona, after contracting the COVID virus. She is believed to have been at EHS from 1947 to 1951 and to have moved to the USA on marrying for the second time: via Christine Fuller.


Gamgee, Audrey (EHS Staff: PE) died since 2000

Halls, Margaret (née Garwood) died on 28 January 2021, aged 85. A Littleport girl, she had lived in Ely for many years. On leaving EHS she became a civil servant initially in Cambridge before transferring to Ely until her retirement: via Christine Fuller

Chambers, Brenda (née Gilbert) d July 2020: via Christine Fuller

Godden, June Lilian: d February 20th, 1952 , aged 18 years. June Godden attended School from 1944 to 1950; after leaving School she went on to the Mackenzie School of Drama to continue her studies in elocution and drama. Her talent often added distinction to our School performances with her beautifully finished work, her clear voice, and the feelings which she could most eloquently express. We shall always remember her great promise which she showed, for she was loved among us for her great gifts and the excellence she had reached.
from the July 1952 EHS magazine

Goodin, Cynthia Olive: d June 1964: in school 1912-1917: from the 1965 EHS magazine: she can be seen on a Sports photo.

Turner, Sheila (née Gorham); died March 2021 aged 88 having been in failing health for several months. Born in Littleport, Sheila was the last Chairman of the EHS Old Girls Association but had enjoyed coming to the annual reunions of the replacement group Old Girls of EHS for the last few years: via Christine Fuller

Mitcherson, Elsie (née Green) d May 2014: Elsie was from Wilburton. She met Jack Mitcherson when he was serving at Mepal with the RAAF and emigrated to Autralia to marry him in 1948, almost 10 years to the day after she was in the 1938 school photo: via her daughter Jan Richards.

Marczewski, Elizabeth (née Green): d1987: from Mepal. Left after School Certificate in 1947 to do nursing at West Suffolk Hospital in Bury St Edmunds: in 1952 she married Ludwik Marczewski (known as Lutek), a Polish doctor who came over just after the war and met her while she was nursing in Kings Lynn. Lutek retired in 1979 and they moved back to Ely: via her daughter Ann Casey.


Brooker, Monica (née Hamence): died January 2011. Shown on the 1938 School Photo. Lived in Sutton. When she left school she worked for Bonnett’s bakery and restaurant in Ely which was owned by her Aunt and Uncle. She died in 2011.Via her daughter Marlene (now Mrs Corke) who was also at EHS, as was Monica's aunt Mabel Hamence who was in the 1913 entry.

Davies, Jennifer  (née Hammond), died on 7 July 2021 at Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge. A long time resident of Burwell, she had moved to Ely about 3 years ago. She can be seen in the 1952, 1954 and 1956 School Photos, and several Reunion Photos: via Christine Fuller.

Huebler, Brenda (née Hardy) of Hawthorn Way, Burwell who died in Addenbrooke's on Feb 18 2016 aged 66. She was born in Newmarket and lived all her life in Burwell. "She attended St Mary's Primary School in the village before going in to Ely High School for Girls". Her funeral was on March 10 2016 at West Suffolk Crematorium: Newmarket Journal  24 March 2016

Carter, Janet (née Harmston): died suddenly at home in Ely on Monday, January 10th, 2011, aged 74 years. Loving mum to Mark and Niki, dearest sister of Sue and brother-in-law Barry. Funeral service at St Mary's Church, Ely, on Wednesday, January 26th, 2011, at 1.30pm, followed by interment in Ely Cemetery. Family flowers only but donations for The Royal British Legion, Ely Branch, may be left at the service or sent to Ely Funeral Service Limited, Tower Road, Ely.

Gingell, Alison (née Harper): Died of motor neurone disease aged 65, worked in support of the people of Coventry for much of her life. In 2002 she became chair of the Arden Cluster primary care trust, bringing her vast experience as a former vice-chair of Coventry health authority (1995-2002), and previous work in marriage guidance and family health, to the position. As chair of the trust, she oversaw the building of a new hospital in the city, supporting NHS staff through major disruption and making difficult decisions when essential NHS services were being moved or reduced. Elected to Coventry city council in 2012 as Labour member for the Sherbourne ward, Alison later served as cabinet member for health and adult services. She was born in Ely, Cambridgeshire, daughter of Joan, a housewife, and Ronald, a schoolteacher, and attended Ely high school for girls. [Thanks to Rosy Wolfe (née Broomfield) who spotted Alison's obituary in the Other Lives section of the Guardian, May 11 2016.]

Curle, Rosemary (née Harris) died on Thursday 15 April 2021 of pneumonia. A native of Littleport, Rosemary was in the 1951 entry and later went on to be a nurse before marrying and having twins. The family made their home in Gloucester.

Haylock, Miss Margaret (EHS and EHS Staff) died peacefully on 3 Aug 2021 at Askham Hall Village Community, Doddington, Cambridgeshire aged 82. Deeply loved daughter of the late Joyce and Ted. Sadly missed by her cousins and all their families. Affectionately known as Doddy, she will also be deeply missed by her god-daughter and her god-grandchildren. Funeral service to take place at St Mary's Church, Ely on Friday 27 August.  Reported Aug 12 in the Ely Standard. Christine Fuller adds:  a spinster, Margaret had been both a pupil and then teacher at EHS and City of Ely College in the Domestic Science department and had sadly not been in the best of health during her latter years.
She can be seen in some of the School and Reunion Photos. If you have recollections of Miss Haylock please contact us

Haynes, Miss DO (EHS Staff, Science): d Oct 1993 aged 93: via Christine Fuller (Bell)

Eames, Diana (née Heath) (EHS Staff, English) died 2008

Searle, Gwendoline May (née Hepher) - b 12th May 1916, d 20th November 1993, attended Ely High School for Girls in the 1920s: via her son Peter Searle

Delanoy, Lorna (née Higson) taught Physical Education in the early 1950s when EHS was at at Bedford House, marrying whilst on the staff. Her enthusiasm opened up a new world in sport for many of us. She came to our Reunions in 2000 and 2005 but passed away in Suffolk in May 2007. [Not to be confused with Mrs Lorna Delanoy (Freeman)!]

from the Eastern Daily Press Thursday, May 31, 2007: Lorna Delanoy died at the West Suffolk Hospital on May 19th 2007. Her funeral service will be held at Norton Parish Church on Wednesday June 6th at 2pm.

During the 1950s she was a popular PE and games mistress at the Ely High School for Girls, then at Bedford House in St. Mary's Street. She helped design the gymnasium for the new High School at Downham Road which is now part of the City of Ely College complex. In 1956 she married Don Delanoy and lived at Stapleford, later at Foxton, in South Cambridgeshire, where she became a parish councillor, school governor and chair of the Gardening Club.

Moving to Suffolk 21 years ago, she continued her interest in church work, gardening and British Legion Poppy Day collections even though for the past three and a half years she had been confined to a wheel chair.News of Ely High Old Girls was always welcome and she attended the centenary celebrations both at the cathedral and at Brook House two years ago.

As well as her husband, she leaves brothers and sisters-in- law, John and Barbara of Ely, and Mike and Lorna of Mepal.

Taylor, Constance Mabel (née Hitch): In School January 1906 - July 1907. From the 1967-68 EHS magazine:

With the passing of Mrs CM Taylor on November 22nd 1967, the School lost one of its earliest pupils at the same time one of its nearest and dearest friends. For some forty years Mabel was the Honorary Secretary of the old Girls' Association until her retirement in 1966. The devoted service which she gave through all these years and her intense and unfailing interest in the Association and in the School were of the rarest. Her tasks included, not alone the keeping of records of the membership, but arrangements for meetings and Reunions, and what was perhaps more demanding, the collection of subscriptions. All these were always done with an enthusiasm and faithfulness which never wavered. Her wide knowledge of old Girls and their families going back as it did to the very beginning of the school, together with her loving interest, were of incalculable help to the Association, and instrumental in keeping it on a firm foundation. When Mabel resigned from the office of secretary, and this was only when ill-health compelled her to do so, she left the Association in a very flourishing condition with a keen and growing membership.

Such a service as she rendered for us all has an effect on the School as a whole, because a strong old Girls' Association is an asset to school life and helps to keep continuity between past and present members.

Mabel has known the early beginning of the School and as a pupil of the first Headmistress, Miss EE Fletcher who set its high tone and aspirations she stood for I think, especially faithfulness, selflessness, sincerity and devotion, the school's debt and that of the old Girls' Association can never be calculated. Her service was one of those precious things, gratitude for which is beyond the power of word to express.

For myself I was very fond of her, knowing how much she loved the School. I am grateful that the School was privileged to have her as a pupil. She was one who never severed her connection with it, but went on to give us all such wonderful service for so long. Hers was a love and enthusiasm which never changed.
Bertha Tilly.

Seldom indeed can a Society enjoy the service of so faithful and devoted a secretary as our Old Girls' Association was privileged for many years to have in Mrs Taylor. A pupil of the school herself during its early years Mrs Taylor became also, in course of time, mother and grandmother of pupils - both Susan and Brigid Riley were Head Girls - thus having, I think, a unique link with the actual school, as well as being Old Girls' Secretary. She attended most school functions, keeping closely in touch with its development and achievements, interested even in such details as changes in uniform. She welcomed, for instance, the introduction of the straw boater as a possible summer hat, thinking it gave greater distinction to the girls' appearance.

Her interest did not cease when ill-health obliged her to give up office. She always welcomed news of the Association and its members, and remembered it.

Some long time after her retirement I gave her, as I thought, interesting news of an Old Girl's family. Immediately she raised her head and said "Yes, you told me that last time you came". I had forgotten - but she hadn't. Such an incident speaks for itself.

And so, with her passing, the School has lost one of its most devoted members, and all of us a dear friend, whose warm, affectionate interest we shall long cherish in grateful memory.
DG Defew

Palmer, Susan Mary (née Houghton) of Witchford, passed away peacefully on Thursday 28th April 2016 aged 67 years. She was in the 1960 EHS entry. Loving wife and adored mother and grandma. Her funeral service was at Coveney Church on Tuesday 17th May 2016 at 2.30pm: via Christine Fuller

Howard, Elizabeth, aged 96: according an obituary in the Guardian on 30th January 2017 she was born in Ely, Cambridgeshire, the only child of Netta and John Howard. Her father was a coal merchant who taught himself Latin and became a verger at Ely Cathedral. From Ely girls’ school, Elizabeth won a place to read English at Bedford College, London University, which was evacuated to Cambridge in 1939. She went on to have a distinguished and influential career in teaching - for more details please click her name

Taylor, Ann (née Humberstone): Died on 19 May 2012 in Norfolk. Ann was one of many girls who travelled daily by train to EHS - she and Christine Fuller were in the same class.

Rumbelow, Daphne (née Hunt) died at the end of March 2021. She was in the 1951 entry: via Christine Fuller.


Brogan, Eleonore Mary, (née Jobson), died in the village of Aldreth shortly before her 94th birthday on 7th January 2010 after a short battle with cancer. She attended Ely High School between 1926 and 1934 - she was very proud of her time there and would tell her grandchildren about the good times she had there, right up until her death. They understood that she took an active part in school life. She used to catch the train every day from the village of Fordham: via her son Mike.

Johnson, Ruth (EHS Staff, Cookery 1952-55). Ruth passed away on 23 February 2020 in Boston and at her request her body was donated to medical research. There will be a Service of Thanksgiving for her Life at the Trinity Church, Spilsby Road, Boston, possibly in the Autumn. The service was due to take place on 31 March 2020 but was cancelled due to the Coronavirus crisis.
Miss Johnson, as we knew her, was a lassie from Lancashire who had a bark worse than her bite and taught her pupils well, teaching them to make a Christmas Cake and decorate it and I’m sure many girls remember being instructed in the conservative method of cooking runner beans! She remained friends with one or two of her former pupils until her death.
After leaving EHS she moved to Boston in Lincolnshire where she later became the Head Teacher of a primary school, a post she held until her retirement: via Christine Fuller.

Jones, Maud (EHS Staff, Chemistry and Deputy Head) died since 2000


Crofts, Freda Elsie, (née Kerridge): Freda, who was born on 4th October 1922, died peacefully in her sleep on Sunday 30th September 2012. She was born at Bush Farm, Littleport, Cambridgeshire, attending EHS during the pre-war years. During WWII she was a childrens' nurse, a role which enabled her to travel to Persia after the war. She married Sam Crofts in 1950 and subsequently moved to Haddenham where she had three children: Richard, Ian (both SGS boys), and Alison (who attended EHS). She became involved in many activities within the village. After Sam died in 1986 she started to travel to various parts of the world, an adventerous trait she passed on to her grand-daughter. She will be missed by her children, grand-children, great grand-daughter and her many friends: via her son Richard.

Jeffrey, Yvonne Julie (née Knott): died on 20 February 2021. A Haddenham girl, she used to attend Reunions with a daughter, Dorinda, who was also a former pupil. Julie worked for Boots many years ago and met up with many former colleagues over the years: via Christine Fuller.


Labdon, Jennifer. November, 1965. Jennifer Labdon, in school 1954-1958, was tragically killed in a car crash in Israel. After leaving Ely High School, Jennifer took a secretarial course at Cambridge Technical College before working for a year in the Cambridge University Appointments Board. She then entered Stockwell Teachers' Training College, and after qualifying taught for a year in Kent. Two years ago she joined the staff of a primary school at Stapleford, near Cambridge.

When the accident occurred she was touring in Israel doing social work in the hope of finding employment abroad for some length of time. Jennifer was greatly loved by all who knew her, both by staff and girls. She had charming manners, an affectionate disposition, keen enthusiasm in all spheres, and much to give to the school community. She served as Deputy Head Girl in her last year at school. We who knew her have lost a dearly loved friend.
from the 1965-55 Ely High School magazine

Hart, Myrtle (née Lavender) d July 2020: via Christine Fuller

Leech, June: died 2019, she was among the oldest of of our Reunion attenders each year: via Christine Fuller

Cullum, Judy  (née Lemon) 1966-72; d17 Mar 2017: click here for the announcement in the Bury Free Press: via Pauline Tambling

Leonard, Sheila (née Lemmon) in Tennessee d2018

Lincoln, Janice: date unknown

Hullyer, Sheila Joan (née Lister), 1947 entry, who passed away after a short illness on 23rd July, 2012. She attended our 2011 reunion.

Rosalind Grey née Lockwood died at the Rank Hospice in Cambridge on 20 April aged 78: via Christine Fuller


Butcher, Jean (née Macer) 1940s died 27 April 2022. She attended one of the reunions held at the Sugar Beet Factory. Click here for the announcement in the Bury Free Press: via her cousin Pauline Tambling.

Young, Christine (née Markham), 1959 entry. "She married and became Christine Young. She divorced in about 1998, but kept her married name. She died of ovarian cancer in 2018, leaving two children." writes her sister Felicity (Fiz) Markham.

Czarnobaj, Pamela Joyce (née Martin) of Ely passed away peacefully at Arthur Rank Hospice on Thursday 7th January 2016 aged 78 years. Dearly loved mum to Andrew, Anthony, Liza, Richard and James and nanna to Joseph, Arianne, Shannon and Ellis. Funeral Service was at St Mary’s Church, Ely on Friday 29th January 2016 at 11am followed by interment in Ely Cemetery.

Alder, Brenda (neé Mason) who attended Ely High School for Girls (believed from 1952 to 1957) died on 9th July 2017, aged 75, writes her husband Peter Alder.

Brenda was born on 4th December 1941 in Isleham and lived there with her parents until she married me on 2nd April, 1977. She gave birth to twins on 6th June 1978 - a son Craig and a daughter Samantha.

When she left school she initially worked for Heffers in Cambridge, before moving on to secretarial work with British Rail in Cambridge, Ernest Webb & Co in Exning, Magnetic Devices in Newmarket and then with the Newmarket Urban District Council. When I met her she was the Chief Financial Office's Secretary at Forest Heath District Council. Following her return to work as our children started school she went on to be Personal Assistant to the National Sales and Marketing Director for Schering-Plough Pharmaceuticals and ultimately the PA to the Journals Director at The Royal Society of Chemistry on the Science Park in Cambridge, retiring in 2001. She often talked about her time at Ely High School for Girls.

McCullagh, Eileen, d May 2009

Harper, Jeanne (née McCullagh) died on 16 December 2018 in Shropshire. Christine Fuller writes:  The McCullagh family consisted of two boys and six girls. Five of the girls attended EHS: Eileen, Norah, Jeanne, Elsie and Mary. Their lives were spent in Ely as a close family unit and even when some of them moved away when they married they still retained that special family closeness. Eileen passed away in 2009, in Ely.

Jeanne was born in 1940, became a teacher and although she had suffered ill health in recent years she was well enough to join her three remaining sisters for the 2018 EHS reunion. She was the widow of Max Harper and continued to live in the family home and is survived by  her three sons. She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great grandmother and will be sorely missed by her large family. I have always held the McCullaghs in very high esteem as each member is very quiet, kind, caring and concerned in every circumstance. I have known them throughout my life. Truly a lovely person.

Horlacher, Kathleen June (née Moore): d Dec 11 1955: from the EHS July 1956 magazine

Moody, Miss Eileen: died September 2012: Head Teacher 1966-72: A Thanksgiving Service for her life took place in Ely Cathedral on 16th October 2012 at 1pm. "Past students and staff of March High School for Girls, Ely High School for Girls, King's School, Ely and friends from Cambridge U34 all welcome. Music for the service from Bridget Hardy, Mezzo-Soprano, members of the Fairhaven Singers, Jonathan Lilley, Organ, Ralph Woodward, piano." via her nephew Andrew Hinchley

Morrell, Marion (EHS Staff, PE) died since 2000


Newstead, Fay d 27 July 1985
BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL VOLUME 291, 2 NOVEMBER 1985
FAY B NEWSTEAD MB, BS
Dr Fay B Newstead, general practitioner, died at her home in Ely on 27 July. Fay Barbara Newstead was born in Ely, Cambridgeshire, and educated at the local high school and then at King's School, Ely. After graduating in medicine at St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, in 1963 she worked at Southend General Hospital in anaesthetics. In 1967 she joined the Royal Air Force and was stationed at Ely, Uxbridge, and Holton, after which she left to work in anaesthetics and casualty at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital at Norwich. She trained for general practice at Attleborough, Norfolk, eventually working in Docking and the surrounding villages. In 1975 she returned to her home city and worked as a general practitioner at Littleport. Fay Newstead was well loved for her kindness and dedication to her patients, and she faced her terminal illness with great courage and dignity. MHD.

Hopkin, Alma May (née Nunn) of Soham, after a short illness in Addenbrooke’s Hospital on Friday 11th March 2016 aged 84 years. Loving wife to Ken, wonderful mum, nan and great nan. Celebration Service at Soham Methodist Church on Saturday 2nd April 2016 at 10.30am. All Welcome. Donations, if desired, for East Anglian Children’s Hospice – Milton may be left at the service or sent to Ely Funeral Service, 4 Tower Road, Ely, Cambs CB7 4HW Tel: 01353 666566.


Palmer, Myra, d Christmas Day 2009

Parkes, Agnes Edith: Senior Mistress 1905-1929, died 25 March 1967

Those of us who belong to the first quarter century of Ely High School hold Miss Parkes in dear and most affectionate remembrance. No one could fail to recognize and appreciate the loyal, loving and selfless devotion with which she served the school. In herself quiet and unassuming but with firmness of principle and strength of character which never wavered, she exercized a strong and lasting influence. In all her ways she showed what it meant to be a Christian gentlewoman. We honour her memory.
from the 1967 Ely High School magazine.

Russell, Edna  née Pease, passed away in 2017: via her daughter Rosemary, who was also at EHS

Sculthorpe, Phyllis May (née Peters), of Mepal, who passed away peacefully in Addenbrookes Hospital on 22nd April 2013, aged 83. In the mid 1990s it was the Sculthorpe sisters-in-law, Phyllis and Olive née Blinch who decided to get in touch with their former school mates and organised Reunions held at the Soham bypass motel; these formed the basis of the group that meets today in the Annual Reunions held each May in Ely. The numbers attending grow year on year and we meet in an informal, happy and relaxed atmosphere and keep the memory of our school alive.

Cooper, Ivy: Mrs Phyllis Ivy Mildred Cooper (née Pinion), of Haddenham, formerly of Wilburton and Sutton St Edmund, died at Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, on May 20 2007, aged 94. Born at Newborough, Peterborough, she was one of seven children. The family moved to Wilburton, where Phyllis - or Ivy as she was known - was educated at the village school and then Ely High School. Her life as an educationalist began at Leverington village school before completing her teacher training at Norwich College. Posts at Wisbech Queen's School and the Payne School, Parson Drove, followed. After marriage to John Ellis (Jack) Cooper and the birth of her two eldest children she returned to teaching at the outbreak of World War Two and was on the staff at Silver Street and Newnham Street Schools in Ely. During that time the London Jewish Free School was evacuated to these schools. She worked with the Civil Defence and the WVS. Twice a week trains arrived from London to bring evacuees, who were then housed in the Ely area. Other evenings were spent teaching craft skills to injured airmen at the RAF hospital. Her next move was to Lincolnshire as the head of Sutton St Edmund Primary School where she remained for the next 30 years until its closure when she transferred to Sutton St James School, remaining there until her retirement. Her commitment to the church saw her serve as a churchwarden and a member of the Diocesan Committee.

In 1980 she returned to Ely area and continued her support of work in the local community and in the church at Wilburton. In addition to her life as an educator she had a great love of history, especially local history and as a devout Christian she made many trips to the Holy Land which she enjoyed lecturing on. Mrs Cooper was predeceased by her husband Jack. She is survived by her daughters Phyllis, Ann, Margaret and son Barrie, her two younger brothers and two grandchildren. A funeral service was held at St Peter's Church, Wilburton, followed by interment in Wilburton Cemetery. extract from source: Harborough Mail June 11 2007

Oxbury, Susan (née Porter) passed away on Wednesday, 2nd March, 2016 in Addenbrookes Hospital, aged 75 years.  A Haddenham girl, she attended EHS from 1951-57.  Sue married Colin Oxbury from Papworth Everard in April 1964, and they lived most of their married life in Godmanchester, Huntingdon.  She suffered ill health for a number of years but was a fighter, never giving up, always happy and never complaining. She will be missed very much by her husband, Colin, her sister, Jean, who also attended EHS and Jean's family who she was very fond of, and her many friends: via Pat Merry (née Markwell),  EHS 1951-57, an Alpha girl and Christine Fuller (née Bell).

Barker, Alocha (née Power) of Pymoor, who came from Black Horse Drove when a pupil at EHS, passed peacefully away on Saturday 13th December 2014, aged 67 years. A dearly loved wife, mother and grandmother. Her funeral service was at St Leonard's Church, Little Downham on Friday 2nd January 2015, followed by committal at Fenland Crematorium.


Raine, Sylvia who passed away in her second term at school on 26th March 1954: Sylvia came to the school as a new girl in September, 1953, and had not been with us quite two terms, but in that short time during which she was with us she showed herself to us all as a girl whose character was of the highest and the best. She had enthusiasm too, for her lessons, and was working hard. She would indeed have been a credit to the school in the years to come. Our sympathy goes out to her parents and brother in their tragic loss.
from the July 1954 EHS magazine

Setchell, Phyllis (née Ransome) died in the Princess of Wales Hospital in April 2012 aged 79. She had trained as a nurse at Addenbrookes Hospital in the 1950s.Via Lorna Delanoy

Johnson, Irene Burton (née Rayner): d 11 Apr 1956: from the EHS July 1956 magazine

Reynolds, Mary (EHS Staff, Needlework) 1934-2003

Riley, Susan (d2/4/22): Susan was a daughter of Mr TL Slug Riley who for many years taught French at Soham Grammar School. Susan was head Girl at EHS 1959-60 (her sister Brigid was Head Girl 1966-67). Her mother (Brenda Taylor) and grandmother (Mrs CM Taylor) were involved with the EHS Old Girls' Association.

Richardson, Arnold preparatory school: celebrated organist: d 1971: referenced by Miss Tilly

Lane, Janet (née Rogers), 2nd February 2014 the widow of Rex Lane: "Lane, Janet Irene passed away peacefully at home on Sunday 2nd February 2014 aged 75 years. Reunited with her husband Rex, loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother. Funeral Service at St Mary's Church, Ely on Tuesday 18th February 2014 at 1pm, followed by an interment at the Arbory Trust, Barton".Via Christine Fuller and Beth Lane

Nardone, Elizabeth (née Rouse) 29 July 2104 - death last weekend of Elizabeth. She had attended many Reunions but had suffered ill health for the last few years: via Christine Fuller

Ellis, May (née Russell) Anne Blake writes: My aunt died on 21st October 2014. May was born in 1919 and was a pupil at EHS in the 1930s. After leaving school she trained as a nurse. During the war she served in the Queen Alexandra Imperial Nursing Service in Africa and Greece.


Thulborn, Joyce (née Salmon) on 19 September 2021 at her home in Haddenham, aged 86. She had regularly attended our Reunions in recent years until ill health prevented her doing so: via Christine Fuller.
   
Daniels, Doris Margaret (née Strawson) "Passed away peacefully on the March 16, 2018 at St. Nicholas Hospice Care. Much loved wife of Paul. Doris will be sadly missed by all her family and friends. Funeral service to be held at the West Suffolk Crematorium (St. Edmunds Chapel) on Thursday, April 12, at 1 p.m. Family flowers only please. Donations to St Nicholas Hospice Care may be sent c/o Armstrongs Funeral Service, 43 St Andrew's Street North, Bury St Edmunds IP33 1TH. Tel 01284 723889" (from March 23, 2018 issue of the East Anglian Daily Times)
Four-time Victrix Ludorum at EHS who went on to teach. Distinctions in History & General Science at O-Level, Prefect 57-59, Deputy Head Girl 59-60. A-Levels Bible Knowledge, History.  She travelled widely with her husband on walking holidays such as in New Zealand. Her sister Mary also taught: via Christine Fuller.

Taylor, Edna: Edna May Taylor (née Sangster), of Swaffham Road, Burwell, died at Newmarket Hospital, on June 17 2008 after a short illness. She was 89. Born in Ness Road, Burwell, she was educated at Ely High School for girls and worked as chief housing officer firstly for Newmarket Rural District Council then later East Cambridgeshire Council at Ely, retiring in 1978. She moved from Ness Road to Swaffham Road when she married Kenneth Taylor in 1960. A keen gardener, she had also in the past held a season ticket at Norwich City Football Club. Widowed in 1975 when her husband died, she is survived by her sister Joyce Brown. Her funeral was held at St Mary's Church, Burwell, and West Suffolk Crematorium, Risby, on June 29 - source: Newmarket Journal, Thursday, July 2008

Wray, Elizabeth (née Sculthorpe) passed away in 2018. Her mother, herself an old girl, said that Elizabeth had trained as a nurse at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital and had later worked in an Ely surgery as a practice nurse.

Brown, Christine (née Skeels): of Barton, beloved wife of Mike, much loved mum of Teresa, Julie and Steven, mother-in-law of Brian, Paul and Jude, loving nanna of Sam, Arthur, Harriet and Beth, passed peacefully to rest on Wednesday, 11th December, 2013. Funeral service and committal, 11.15am, at Cambridge City Crematorium, West Chapel, on Thursday, 2nd January, 2014. Cambridge News from Dec. 17 to Dec. 19, 2013, via Christine Fuller who adds that Christine Brown had attended many of the Reunions.

Skinner, Gloria d 2007: via Wendy Khan (Sealy)

Smith, Helen: d 1st September 2018 in University College Hospital, London, after a short illness. Her three cousins were with her. Christine Fuller says "Helen will be remembered as a serious and studious girl at school and as a valued colleague in her career". Her brother Dr Edward GR Smith was in the 1956 entry at Soham Grammar School. He died of cancer in 2013. Helen was also a good friend of the late Jackie Sotheran (née Bidwell). Via Christine Fuller.

Smith, Mary date not known

Staniforth, Beryl (née Bufton) (EHS Staff, History) died since 2000

Stanyer, Helen (EHS Staff, Geography) 1934-1975: Helen Stanyer was my mentor and my friend who collapsed and died when she was Careers Tutor at the City of Ely College. She was the second of my three teachers of Geography all of whom fired my enthusiasm in that subject - writes Christine Fuller (Bell).


Taylor, Sylvia lost her long battle with myeloma on 22 April 2009: via Heather Smith (Holliday).

Jefferson, Alma (née Thorby) passed away on 6 June 2014. She had been a regular attendee at the Reunions over the years but was too unwell to attend this year. She had lived in Littleport all her life. The Fenprobe (talking news service for E Cambs) website noted that Alma "joined them as a reader with the Pilgrim Group in the late 1990s and remained as a valued and consistent member of Bill's group until 2012, when she resigned because of failing health. She will be remembered with affection for her humour and goodwill. Our thoughts are with Gordon and the family. The funeral is on Tuesday, 24 June at the Salvation Army, City Road, Littleport, Ely CB6 1NG at 2 pm."

Ogden, Anne (née Thompson), d 20 July 2021  at The Orchards Care Home, Ely, aged 86 years. Dearly loved wife of the late Mike, much loved mother of Louise and Clare and devoted Granny of Toby. Funeral service  at St Wendreda's Church, March on Thursday 12th August 2021 at noon, followed by interment in Eastwood Cemetery, March. Anne had attended several Reunions and can be seen in some of the photos. She is also on the 1952 School Photo. A native of Littleport and born in 1935, she was the daughter of the local coal merchant and had married Michael Ogden, a Surveyor in his family firm in March where they set up home. However as a widow Anne had moved to Ely where she lived in Baird Lodge: via Christine Fuller.

Thulborn, Doreen, d March 8th, 1952, aged 23 years. Doreen Thulborn attended School from 1939 to 1945. She was a girl of quiet and loveable disposition, not one to push herself forward, but always pleasant, always to be relied on. Her contribution to the community of School was in her fine character and in her steadiness. She had taken up nursing as a career: her passing means a great loss to the profession.
from the July 1952 EHS magazine

Tilly, Miss Bertha, Headmistress 1936-66: in her 80th year, died 25 April 1980.

Trotter, Mrs Joy (Greenwood when Head of Music at EHS), died 27 August 2020. Joy, of  Whitley Chapel, died peacefully at home, after a short illness. Beloved wife of David, adored mother, sister, aunt and grandmother. Wonderful musician, teacher and person. Huge thanks to all of her friends and carers, and particular thanks to Jillian, Carole and Geoff. Private family funeral.

As a youngster Joy Greenwood attended County High School in Carlisle, where her talent for the piano was spotted and nurtured by her teacher. Joy won a significant national competition at the age of 11, and by the time she was 16, had won a scholarship to the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London. Joy practised hard and emerged a well-trained and exceptional pianist at the end of the five-year course. Joy had the talent to pursue a performing career, but she chose teaching and did a post-graduate teaching diploma in London.Years later, Joy was asked if she regretted not going for performance, but she was adamant that teaching had always been what she wanted to do. She knew what it meant to teach, and that was what she wanted.

Joy did her primary teaching practice at a school in Penrith, and when the year was over moved to work at Ely High School for Girls. It was there that she met David, who was a history teacher. They married in 1973 and David then gave up teaching to take up law, training as a barrister.

Please use the Search page to find more on Miss Greenwood and Mr Trotter at EHS. For example Fiz Markham recalls her nickname being Gertie and being inspirational, if a bit frightening

For more about please click here for an article on Joy in the Hexham Courant: via Pauline Tambling

Stubbings, Eileen (née Tunnell), 1938-43 : died aged 93 on 8 May 2020: she is in one of the Reunion photos: via Claire Pettit

Tyndall, Arthur : one of the original entrants to Ely High School in May 1905 he was to fall at Passchendaele just twelve years later.

The book plate for the Tyndall Prize for Nature Study given annually in his name, provided by Helen Smith, states:

"Given in Memory of Arthur George Tyndall, a pupil at Ely High School 1905-1909; Lieutenant in 2nd Battalion, Rifle Brigade; Killed in Action at Passchendaele, November 18th 1917."

His Commonwealth War Graves Commission record states:

"Son of George Herbert and Annie Tyndall, of Minster Cottage, Ely. Formerly Cambridge University OTC."
It says he was a 2nd Lt in A Coy, 2nd Bn, Rifle Brigade. He has no known grave and is named on the Tyne Cot Memorial.

A dedication by someone who fought alongside him: "THE RAILWAY MAGAZINE BOUND VOLUME VI JANUARY to JUNE 1900". ... The book was purchased new, in London, by my Grandfather. ... My grandfather placed a printed "In Memoriam" sheet on the inside cover of the book, dedicating it to Second Lieutenant Arthur George Tyndall, who was killed in action at Passchendale, Belgium on 18 November 1917, while fighting next to him."

From the Ely Roll of Honour:
TYNDALL, Arthur George - 2nd Lieut, 2nd Battalion, The Rifle Brigade (The Prince Consorts Own)

Only child of George Herbert Tyndall, of Minster Cottage, Ely, Bookseller, by his wife, Annie, dau. of George (and Rosina) Wemling, of Harston. Born Ely, co. Cambridge, 16th May, 1898; educated Ely High School; Lynfield, Hunstanton and Fitzwilliam Hall, Cambridge, where he was a member of the OTC; was a pupil of the County Surveyor, received a commission, and was gazetted 2nd Lieut. The Rifle Brigade 18th Sept, 1917.

Served with The Expeditionary Force in France and Flanders from 18th Oct following, and was killed in action at Passchendaele 18th Nov. of the same year. His Commanding Officer Lieut-Col Brand wrote: " He had only been with us a short time, but had shown promise of doing excellent work ..... I am very sorry that a promising young officers life should have been cut short."

Turpin, Yvonne d 2000


Uffindell, Geraldine - a contemporary who died in 1963 - via Christine Fuller (Bell)


Verini, Miss EM: Headmistress 1929-36: aged 93, died 7 July, 1987.

North, Monica Mary (née Vince) Monica Mary Vince attended Ely High School 1961-1968, Victrix Ludorum, followed by four years at the University of Sussex from which she graduated with a BA in French. In 1972 she married Philip North, and soon after the couple emigrated to live and work in Holland for a few years. When they relocated to the UK they settled in Kent where they lived from the mid-seventies onwards, bringing up 3 children. Monica died aged 59 on October 30th 2008, having battled bravely but vainly from the middle of that year against an aggressive onset of cancer: via Richard Vince


Walker, Geraldine date not known

Mockridge, Patricia (née Warwick) (EHS staff, English 1954-58). Pat's daughter Rachel Clayton writes: Ely was Pat Warwick’s first teaching job after graduating from Royal Holloway College and King’s College with a BA Dip Ed in English. She joined the staff in 1954 at the same time as Diane Heath (English), Bridget Pearson (now Lay: Geography & RE) and Beryl Wagge (now Courtney: PE). Patricia remained in touch with all these ladies all her life, until Di’s death a few years ago. The headmistress at the time was Bertha Tilly and head of English was Pam Brook who enthusiastically produced Shakespeare plays, musicals and operettas, in which Patricia was involved. This not only encompassed her interest in literature but also her passion for choral music which lasted throughout her life. She shared accommodation with a Mrs Bush. Stella Cork joined the staff in September 1956 to teach PE and they remained friends until Patricia’s death.

The whole school moved to brand new premises at the end of the summer term 1957 and Patricia left in July 1958. Stella remembers them both belonging to the Cambridge Choral Society, performing in King’s College and Linton Village College. They were transported to rehearsals at breakneck speed by Walter Constable who lived at Wardy Hill. He later went to London, played the organ, got a scholarship to RSCM and became John Constable, the well-known pianist and accompanist. At weekends Patricia would sail at Ely Sailing Club as well as returning home to sail in Norfolk.

After leaving EHS in 1958 she moved to teach in London where she met her husband Philip. They moved to Kent where she had two teaching jobs whilst they brought up a family and then returned to her beloved Norfolk where she remained until her death on 10 March 2016. She was a keen sailor and singer all her life but she had many other hobbies and interests, naturally including literature. She leaves a daughter in Norfolk and a son and two grandsons in the USA.

Patricia attended the staff reunion in 1995 at Pam Brook’s house at Woking.

Editor: Together with her husband Philip Patricia wrote books on weathervanes. She died on 10th March 2016 aged 83. Her memorial service took place on Tuesday 22 March 2016 at St Helen’s Church, Ranworth, Norwich.

Rayner, Rita (née Wayman) 1907-2007: Rita was a district nurse in the Sutton, Mepal area for many years and may well have delivered many of Old Girls in the course of her duties. As the oldest former pupil attending the 2005 Reunion, she had the honour of cutting the celebratory cake with Pip Unwin.

Whitmee, Lilian Florence (Secretary) 1907-2003: death registered in June 2003

Bozeat, Molly Helen (née Hales-Wigg) died suddenly and totally unexpectedly at home in Ely on 8th November 2021. Mollie was Head Girl 1954-55. Her husband, Dick Bozeat, was Woodwork master at Soham Grammar School and later on the staff of Soham Village College. The eulogy at her funeral at St Peter's Ely on 6th December 2021 has been provided by one of her grandsons, Robert ...

Molly Helen Hales-Wigg was born on the 9th of February 1937.  She was an only child for almost nine years when along came her little brother, Will.  Molly had a happy childhood with loving, caring parents.

Molly was educated at the infants and juniors in Market Street School and then at Ely Girls High School where she became a prefect and then Upper Head Girl.  From there she went on to Furzedown Training College in London, beginning her teaching career in 1957 at Littleport County Primary School.  After three years she moved on to Needham's School in Ely where she taught needlework.  Whilst at Needham's she was set up by friends and met Richard Bozeat.  He too was a teacher and taught at Soham Grammar School.  Molly and Dick married in March 1964 at St Mary's Church in Ely.

Four years later their son, Mark, was born.  Molly felt very fortunate to take a six year break from teaching to raise Mark to primary school age.  She felt a mother's guilt returning to teaching when asked to do 'a bit of supply' at Soham Infants School.  This led to a full time position where she taught until taking early retirement in 1993.  Many primary school children will remember Molly fondly, sometimes not as the complicated Mrs Bozeat, but Mrs BoPeep.

Molly was loving and devoted to all the family.  Not only to Dick and Mark and later his wife Jane, and especially to the grandsons, James and Robert.  As Grandma, Molly was soon down on the carpet with the   boys, doing jigsaws, playing trains and games.  She always spoke to Mark, James and Robert on Sunday night and was so proud of them all.

With all the tasks Molly undertook she had the same dedication to perfection.  In her work as a teacher, everything she did was carried out diligently and to a very high standard.  Her exceptional housekeeping abilities were instilled at an early age by her mother who had both Molly and Will doing household chores before going to school.

Many were the things which defined Molly.  She was ahead of her time as a pioneer of recycling.  There was very little which couldn't be repurposed or reused.  She enjoyed reading and sewing and was an exceptional knitter.  She also enjoyed travel.  While others in the 1950's were excited by their trip to Great Yarmouth or Bournemouth, Molly's sights were set further afield, travelling with friends to many parts of Europe.  After retirement she and Dick enjoyed tours in Kenya, the USA and Canada.

The phrase 'if you want something doing ask a busy person' could have been coined specifically for Molly.  As well as keeping the home and garden in perfect order, she volunteered for Christian Aid, the WRVS and Lavender House.  She also enjoyed and fulfilled many roles at St Mary's Church, helping at the Sunday School, the Ladies Fellowship, making posies for Mothering Sunday, providing refreshments and decorating the church.  St Mary's was such an important part of her life, having been christened and married there and attending nearly every Sunday service for most of her adult life.  Her faith was important to her and she was very grateful for the church and its community which supported her throughout her life.

Carley, Erica (née Woodrow): d Mar 14 1956: from the EHS July 1956 magazine

Woolstenholmes, Audrey:  Audrey, who was from Haddenham, passed away on 15 January 2020 aged 83. She had always enjoyed the Reunions but ill health had prevented her attending the last two: via Christine Fuller

Huebler, June (née Wright) died 2019, she was among the oldest of of our Reunion attenders each year: via Christine Fuller


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page last updated 25 May 22