Obituaries for January 15 2014

Hayscastle Cross

MRS Linda Jean Devereux of Golau’r Ser, Hayscastle Cross passed away at Withybush Hospital on July 4. She was 63.

Linda was born in Cardiff, the daughter of Tom and Doreen Paul.

She married Graham in 1968 and they lived in Bristol for a year before moving back to Cardiff and then settled in Senghenydd for three years, finally moving back to Grahams home county of Pembrokeshire in 1975.

They lived in Haverfordwest for nine years before moving back to Hayscastle Cross with their three children, Richard, Sarah and Alex in 1984.

In her teenage years Linda trained as a dispenser with Boots.

Following the move to Pembrokeshire she carried out various full and part-time roles including bookkeeping, farm work and working for a local estate agent.

Before retirement Linda worked alongside Graham for Advantage Business Supplies.

Once settled in Hayscastle she joined the local WI and was president for two years.

She was also treasurer for the Roch First Scout Group and a school governor.

In late life Linda took great pleasure in her grandchildren Sophie, Callum, Ruby and Alfie and also enjoyed her garden and the wildlife it attracted.

Linda was a lovely lady who will be greatly missed by all who knew her and will never be forgotten “as she was our sunshine”.

The funeral and internment at Noddfa Newton Baptist Chapel was well attended by family, friends and former work colleague.

The principle mourners were Graham (husband); Richard and Kathryn (son and daughter-in-law); Sarah and Adrian (daughter and son-in-law); Alex and Sian (son and daughter-in-law); David and Lerri (brother and partner); Callum and Sophie (grandson and granddaughter).

The service was officiated by Revd G Aled Jenkins who spoke movingly about Linda and how she always had a smile on her face and laughter in her voice.

Linda loved poetry and poems were read by Alex (Life Goes On) and Richard (The Book).

The bearers were Richard Devereux, Alex Devereux, Callum Devereux, David Paul, Adrian Ellmer and Adam Williams.

There were family flowers only with donations if desired for the National Rheumatoid Arthritis Society c/o Mr Dai Davies, 36 Heritage Gate, Haverfordwest SA61 2RF.

The funeral arrangements were carried out with great dignity by Bernard Mathias of St Davids.

 

Mrs O Rowlands

Rosebush

IT is with sadness that we record the sudden death of Olga Rowlands of Linden Court, Rosebush on November 29. She was 85.

Olga was the second daughter of the late David and Ruth Phillips of Glansyfnau, Rosebush.

Although she had been suffering from osteoporosis for the last few years her death was a great shock to everyone in the community. Despite her invalidity she would not miss the opportunity for going for a ride in the car with husband Phil who looked after her with care and affection until the very end.

She was predeceased by her only son Paul who died when he was one year old, also her sister Nana.

The family left to mourn and principal mourners are Phil (husband); Jackie and Reg (brothers); sisters-inlaw Ela, Ogwen and Eiry; plus nephews and nieces and their families.

Her funeral consisted of a service at the chapel of rest at Morawelon, Efailwen and a public service at Maenclochog cemetery where a large number of family and friends had gathered to pay their respects and condolences to her husband Phil and the extended family. The service was officiated by the Rev Eirian Wyn Lewis, Mr Ken Thomas and Rev Emyr Wyn Thomas. Apologies were received from Rev Geoffrey Eynon and Rev Gerald Jones.

The bearers were Elis Reed, Neil Phillips, Brian Edwards and Dyfed Davies.

There were family flowers only.

The funeral arrangements were carried out by Mr Dennis Jones, funeral director of Maesawelon, Efailwen.

 

Mr W J Bowen

Haverfordwest

MR William John Bowen formally of Jury Lane, Haverfordwest passed away after a long stay at Withybush Hospital on December 12. He was 93.

Originally from Caerau, Maesteg he worked on lots of schools around Pembrokeshire including Bush School and also in Brawdy and building the crematorium as a labourer.

He retired at the age of 50 due to angina.

He served in the Welsh Regiment and then was seconded to the Inniskillings, where he fought in North Africa, Sicilly then up through Italy. At one time in Africa he was part of the Desert Rats.

He was wounded in Italy but recovered and fought until demobbed, when he was told he had to find his own way home.

Bill, as he was known, loved gardening and watching quiz programmes on TV. In later life he adored his daughter Pearl’s dog, Purdy, who could do no wrong.

He was married to his wife Valery Doreen Bowen for 55 years until she predeceased him in 2002.

The family left to mourn and principal mourners are Pearl and Gwilym Edwards (daughter and son-in-law); Wendy Hoskins and Debbie Hoskins (daughter and partner); Lee and Molly (grandson and wife); Mike and Katie (grandson and fiancée); Wendy and Denzil (niece and husband); Daphne Bowen (sister-in-law); Robin Bowen and Susie (nephew and wife); Stephanie and Andy (niece and husband); Norman and Pam (nephew and wife); Genette and David (niece and husband); John Beynon (nephew and wife); David McKay (nephew) plus other relatives too numerous to mention.

Wendy and Debbie Hoskins (daughter and partner) were unable to attend due to inclement weather from America.

The service was held at Parc Gwyn Crematorium and was officiated by Rev Huw George.

The bearers were Gwilym Edwards (son-in-law), Denzil Pennington (nephew-in-law), Lee Knight (grandson) and Robin Bowen (nephew).

There were family flowers only and the funeral arrangements were carried out by Roy Folland and Sons, Haverfordwest.

 

Ms I A Thomas

Milford Haven

IVY Avril Thomas of Shakespeare Avenue, Milford Haven passed away at Withybush Hospital on December 25. She was 96.

Born in 1917, the elder daughter of Mr and Mrs Bert Thomas of Charles Street Milford Haven, Avril loved her Milford heritage and was proud of her family’s working and social history in the town.

She started work as a telephonist for the Crown Post Office in Hamilton Terrace in the 1930s, and was extremely dedicated to her work achieving promotions to the level of Supervisor In Charge of the Haverfordwest telephone exchange.

Her long career of over 40 years culminated in her being awarded the Imperial Service Medal.

Avril had a passion for golf and was a member of Milford Haven Golf Club for 66 years.

During that time she was proud to have been both Ladies Captain in 1980 and Ladies President in 1985.

Well informed on current affairs, Avril could make interesting conversation no matter the age or interests of the person she was talking to.

Whether it related to politics, finance, celebrity or sport, she would always have an opinion on the latest news.

A fun loving person who was extremely kind and generous – Avril will be fondly remembered as “a grand and charming lady”.

The funeral service was held at Hamilton Court Funeral Home followed by interment in Milford Haven Cemetery.

The service was officiated by Rev Martyn Evans, and the bearers were Chris Turner, Richard Pugh, Hugh Tribe and Henry Davies.

Avril leaves to mourn her niece Margaret; nephew-inlaw Roy; and great-nephew Thomas and his wife Sarah; together with her many good friends and neighbours.

The funeral arrangements were carried out by Tom Newing and Son, Milford Haven.

 

Mr D O Richards

St Davids

A LARGE gathering of family and friends attended the funeral service of David Owen Richards (Dai the Farmers) at Seion Chapel, St Davids on Thursday October 24.

Although in poor health for several years, David died unexpectedly and peacefully at home on Tuesday 15 October.

He was aged 75.

David spent many of his formative years at the Fold with his brother John and sisters Doreen (predeceased 2010), Dorothy, Beryl and Betty, and later at 19 Heol Dewi where his youngest sister Iris was born.

It was during this time that he established a lifelong friendship with Gareth Evans, whose moving eulogy was read at David’s funeral, along with a eulogy from Leslie Williams and Keith Davies.

His early ambition to become a police officer was curtailed by the death of his father, and like many others of the time, went to work at Mynydd Ddu to support the family.

He later met and married Barbara “Anita” Evans, who was at the time was a Wren stationed at HMS Goldcrest in Brawdy, and for a short time, moved to live in Craig Cefn Parc and work at the Mond nickel works in Clydach.

David returned to St Davids in 1969 when he and Anita took ownership of the Farmers Arms in Goat Street.

Dai the Farmers as he was soon to become known touched the lives of many, both local and visitor alike, and across many generations.

He could be a shoulder to lean on at a difficult time, a willing accomplice to a sneaky late night beverage, a rousing host on rugby days or a contentious speaker when it came to matters of finance and politics.

He was fair in judgment but quick to temper those who fell out of line. Many a good story could be recanted of Dai’s tenure as the publican of the Farmers Arms.

Dai left the Farmers Arms in 1985 and established a small successful B&B at Pen- Albro, Goat Street.

The service of remembrance was conducted by the Rev Hugh George and Dai was laid to rest in a family plot at St Davids Cemetery.

The principal mourners were Andrew (son); Karen and Steve (daughter and son-in–law); Sian (daughter); John (brother); Dorothy and David (sister and brother-inlaw); Beryl (sister); Betty (sister); Iris and Dave (sister and brother-in-law); Amy, Holly, Aaron, Shannon, Lea, Rosie and Riley (grand-daughters and grand-sons); Alanna (great-grand-daughter); Wyn (brother-in-law), nephews and nieces together with many other relatives and family friends, too numerous to mention.

The bearers were Keith Davies, Les Williams, John Taylor and Trevor Martin and the funeral services provided by W.G. Bernard Mathias.

There were family flowers only and any donations were made in lieu to the Surgery, New Street, St Davids.

 

Mr A R Fletcher

Johnston

MR Arthur Ronald Fletcher (known as Ron) passed away at Withybush Hospital on December 3. He was a resident at Fairfield Care Home, Johnston.

Originally from Hubberston and Hakin in his youth he worked for Lawrence the Bakery until his National service.

After which he joined Milford Docks Company and remained with them for the rest of his working life.

His service record included joining the RAF, where he served in Norway, The Middle East and Italy.

His interests included being a member of Milford Haven Rugby Club for most of his life. He loved a flutter on the horses, loved to see all his family, and enjoyed reminiscing about the good old days.

He was predeceased by his wife Madeline Mary Fletcher in 1990.

The family left to mourn and principal mourners are Keith and Sharon Fletcher (son and daughter-in-law); Paul and Janet Fletcher (son and daughter-in-law); Janice and Martin Melbourne (daughter and son-in-law); David and Susan Fletcher (son and daughter-in-law); Jan, Amy, Natalie, Karen and Matthew (grandchildren); Lilly, Charlie and Elise (great grandchildren).

The service was held at St Davids Church, Hubberston on December 11 followed by internment at Milford Haven Cemetery and was officiated by Rev Andy Bookless. The bearers were Andrew Norman, Jeffrey Sinnett, Defan Hughes and Bryn Griffiths.

The funeral arrangements were carried out by Tom Newing and Sons Ltd, Milford Haven.

 

 

Mrs M Bowen

Manorowen, Fishguard

THE death occurred peacefully at Withybush Hospital of Dinah Morfydd Bowen, Coedlas, Manorowen, Fishguard.

She was 75.

Morfydd was born and lived in the parish of Manorowen all her life. She was educated at Goodwick Primary School and Fishguard Grammar School, of which she was very proud.

On leaving school she worked at L H Cook Grocery Business in West Street, Fishguard.

From there she married her husband Waldo. They made their home at Trellewelyn Manorowen until 1974 when they moved next door to Coedlas, where she remained until her death. Sadly Morfydds only son Charles passed away in 2005.

For many years she helped run her husband’s small but successful electrical business along with running their smallholding. Morfyyd’s main hobbies were growing her own flowers and shrubs.

She competed in various shows throughout the county and beyond, winning numerous prizes and silver cups.

She later became a judge.

Morfydd was a member of Haverfordwest Floral Art Society and later the North Pembrokeshire Floral Art Society, of which she was one of the founder members and in later years she became President. She also demonstrated and tutored her floral art skills to younger members for many years.

In 1994 Morfydd became ill with hepatitis and resulted in being one of the first people in Pembrokeshire to receive a liver transplant, which was carried out very successful at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. She soon recovered and attended clinics in Birmingham for some years and later at Withybush Hospital in Haverfordwest.

Morfydd enjoyed a good quality of life and resumed all her previous duties including being a Church Warden at Manorowen Church, to where she had been a lifelong member.

Her faith was extremely important to her.

Sadly in recent years Morfydd’s health deteriorated and in October she was taken into Withybush Hospital where she was cared for with great dignity but sadly passed away on November 30.

She was a sister to the late Mary, John and Peter Young.

The family left to mourn are Waldo (husband); Anthony and Jo (grandson and wife); Christopher and Catherine (grandson and partner); Heledd and Simon (granddaughter and partner); June (daughter-in-law); Robert and Janet (brother and sister-inlaw); Ann (sister); Dorothy and Claire (sisters-in-law); Eyron (cousin); Denise and Evelyn (cousins-in-law) plus all nephews and nieces, other relatives, friends and neighbours too numerous to mention.

Unable to attend Brenda (sister-in-law); Jane and June (sisters).

The funeral service took place at St Peter’s Church in Goodwick where there was a very large attendance, officiated by the Rev Brian Barnes, assisted by the Rev John Roberts.

Morfydd was laid to rest at Llanwnda cemetery alongside her beloved son Charles.

The organist was Mrs Valerie Llewhelin and the bearers were Martyn Watson, Meurig Lloyd, Oliver Johns, Dorian Williams, Raymond Llewhelin and Gwilym Cornock.

There were family flowers only with donations in memory of Morfydd if desired which can be made payable to The Liver Foundation Trust, which can be sent to P Jenkins and Sons, Feidr Castell, Fishguard, who also carried out the funeral arrangements in the most honourable and dignified manner.

 

Mr D Owens

Haverfordwest

MR Don Owens of Cherry Grove, Haverfordwest died at Withybush Hospital on December 20 after being admitted to Ward 10 on December 11. He was 76.

Don was a native of Haverfordwest and with the exception of being away at the end of the 1950s to undertake national service, had lived all of his life in Pembrokeshire and within a few miles of Haverfordwest.

On leaving school, Don completed an electrical apprenticeship in Haverfordwest and after returning from the army he worked as an electrician on Greens buses until 1960. During 1960 Don moved to work with the Ministry of Works at Brawdy when the Royal Navy occupied the site. In 1971 he left Brawdy and worked over the next 11 years for a number of electrical contractors in Pembrokeshire before concluding his working life between 1982 and 1992 as a maintenance electrician at the milk factory in Merlin’s Bridge.

Don was primarily a family man and he had an active retirement around his wife, son and grandchildren, who he loved and supported in everything that they did.

He was a devoted husband to his late wife Shirley who he lovingly and uncomplainingly cared for her throughout a number of years of her own ill health until her death in 2010.

He leaves to mourn one son, Mark and four grandchildren, Gareth, Gwili, Geraint and Alys.

The principal mourners were Mark Rhys-Owens (son); Geraint Owens (grandson); Alys Owens (granddaughter).

Grandsons Gareth and Gwili Owens were unable to attend the service as both are currently in New Zealand but their thoughts and prayers were with the rest of the family on the day.

The funeral took place on December 27 with a service at St David’s Church Prendergast, Haverfordwest, followed by cremation at Parc Gwyn, Narberth. The service was officiated by Cannon Geoffrey Gwyther.

The bearers at the Church and Parc Gwyn were Messers Mal Edward, Dario Algeri, Eryl Thomas, Paul Lucas, Bob Stocker, Marley Davies and Neil Devonald.

There were family flowers only. Donations in memory of Don are being shared between Cancer Research and the Cinnamon Trust.

Anybody wishing to make a donation in Don’s memory can forward donations to Mr Ian Davies, 11 Cherry Grove, Haverfordwest, SA61 2NT.

The funeral director was Roy Folland and Son, Haverfordwest.

 

Mrs V F Temple

Clynderwen

THE death occurred at Torestin Nursing Home, Tiers Cross of Mrs Violet F Temple formally from Mynachlog- Ddu, Clynderwen on December 22. She was 92.

Originally from Chatham in Kent, she started work as a housemaid in service during the Second World War. She worked in the ropery in the Naval Dockyard in Chatham making ropes for the ships and also she worked in the coop as a counter assistant.

Her last job before retirement in 1986 was as an assistant cook at Greenhill Avenue Centre, Tenby.

Her main interests included knitting, cooking, gardening, flowers and plants. In later years she was a member of Mynachlod-Ddu WI, reading, walking her dog Poppy over the Green.

She was predeceased by her husband John Temple in 1977.

The family left to mourn and principal mourners are Colin and Anita Temple (son and daughter-in-law); Ernest Liddle (brother-in-law); Hilda Smith (sister-in-law); Terry and Dee Liddle, Alan Liddle, Hannah Liddle, Vanessa Lewis, Alan Pratt, Nic Stockford, Ryan Stockford, Paul Temple, Simon, Wendy and Richard Temple; Stephen Smith, Anne Brown (nephews, nieces and other family members), plus many friends and neighbours too numerous to mention.

The service was held at Parc Gwyn Crematorium and was officiated by Rev Becky Davies.

The bearers were Alan Liddle, Terry Liddle, Nic Stockford and Ryan Stockford.

Donations in lieu of flowers for the Parkinson Society c/o E C Thomas and Son Funeral Directors, Zoar Chapel Funeral Home, Llanteg, Narberth SA67 8QH, who also carried out the funeral arrangements.

 

Ms B Turnbull

Johnston

BETTY Turnbull passed away peacefully at Withybush Hospital on December 17 at the age of 83.

She will be forever in the family’s hearts and remembered with love by all her family.

Betty lived in Johnston but was born in Dudley in the West Midlands.

The family left to mourn and principal mourners are Ken (brother); children and partners Janet, Ralph, Graham, Ann, Jim, Alan, Wendy, Alison, Chris; aunt to Karen; grand hildren, great grandchildren and partners Sarah, Christopher, Jenny, Mark, Jane, Gareth, Tara, Bonnie, Danny, Hollie, Nathan, Chelcie, Alex, Charis, Micheal, Lauren, Jake, Lexie, Roen, Phoebe, Darby, Jack, Reeney.

The funeral took place at Parc Gwyn, Narberth on December 30.

All donations in lieu of flowers for the HDU-ITC units at Withybush Hospital can be sent to Alison Trew, 20 Church Road Johnston, Haverfordwest Pembrokeshire SA62 3HE.

The funeral arrangements were carried out by Roy Folland and Son, of Haverfordwest.