The funeral has been held for Rosemary Anne Clark, 65, of Royal Wootton Bassett, who was described as a warm, loving person who had a notable career in nursing.

Mrs Clark was a staff nurse and sister at Swindon’s former Princess Margaret Hospital, including a period as charge sister in Accident & Emergency and latterly she worked with outpatients at Ridgeway Hospital, Wroughton.

Mrs Clark (nee Stone) was born at Bideford, the second of her parents’ three children.

Robert Rowe, who led the service at Kingsdown Crematorium, Swindon, said that an incidence of cancer in Mrs Clark’s childhood inspired her choice of career.

At the age of 16 she went to work in a nursing home, prior to training in orthopaedic nursing and subsequently she gained a full nursing qualification at Plymouth.

She was noted for her cheerfulness, efficiency, professionalism and zest for knowledge which led to a degree in humanities in more recent years.

The funeral, which celebrated a life well lived, began with a recording of Love Grows Where My Rosemary Goes, and a poem read by Paula Clifford.

Mr Rowe said that Mrs Clark’s husband, Dick Clark, realised that she was the love of his life when they first met at a Devon drama group, and within three and a half weeks he had proposed.

They enjoyed 42 happy years together, and have a son, daughter and two grandchildren with whom Mrs Clark, a loving, positive influence, shared much laughter.

Mr and Mrs Clark, who settled in Wootton Bassett during 1971, celebrated their ruby wedding anniversary two years ago with a wonderful holiday in Canada.

Mrs Clark enjoyed research into family history and was involved in various charitable endeavours, including the Walk for Life. She was a member of the National Trust, English Heritage, the Wolf Conservation Trust and the Friends of Lydiard Park, and was an accomplished cook who excelled in making birthday cakes and Christmas puddings.

Tributes were paid to her family and medical support team, Prospect Hospice, and all who enriched the quality of her life during her final illness.

Further reminiscences and refreshments were shared afterwards at Marsh Farm Hotel in Royal Wootton Bassett.

Memorial cheques for Prospect Hospice may be sent c/o Maslin Funeral Service, 118a High Street, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7AU.