A respected and much loved figure in Devizes, Norma Helen Kibby-Coles died at home on August 25th 2017 aged 97 years.

Always petite, smart and elegant, Norma is best remembered for introducing Kibbys fashion and footwear

shop in Sidmouth Street, Devizes in 1957.

Business flourished, but with the threat of a link road scheme which would have demolished half of the shop, decided along with husband Fred to take the plunge and relocate to a bigger premises in Maryport Street in 1967.

At this time, after leaving school, son Rick joined the family business and for the next 30 years with its trademark logo of 'Top-To-Toe Fashion' remained an integral part of the local shopping scene.

With loyal friendly staff and excellent service Kibbys served the town well and Norma was rightly proud of her achievements during this time and often proved an inspiration to many of those who came under her wing.

Born in Derby in 1920, she met and married Fred in 1942 who then spent the next three war years in India. Reunited in 1945 Norma moved to Devizes to be with Fred who was stationed at nearby Yatesbury to lay down some family roots.

She is survived by children Rick, Jan and stepson Garth, daughters-in-law Frances and June, son-in-law Mike, grandchildren William, Anna, Liz, Jessica and Sarah, great grandchildren Florence, Max, Freddie, Charlie, Olivia and Richard.

She loved nothing more than family get-togethers and socialising with her many friends.

Her zest for life and boundless energy was infectious to all who knew her and this carried on right through to her nineties.

She was very active in charity fundraising by the way of Kibbys fashion shows and numerous coffee mornings held in her beautiful garden. She also enjoyed travel with friends, gardening, reading and especially the many Westie' dogs that featured throughout her life.

After Fred passed away in 1972 Norma found happiness again when she married Bill Coles in 1980.

A new chapter and a new family further enriched Norma's life throughout her remaining years. She enjoyed a long, happy fulfilled life and will be greatly missed by friends and family alike.

A memorial service will take place at St Andrews Church, Long Street, Devizes on Wednesday 20th September at 2.00pm. Donations if desired in aid of Arthritis Research UK to John Stuart Funeral Directors.