Mourners remember Olive (From The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald)

Mourners remember Olive

10:21am Friday 4th January 2008 in Swindon

OLIVE Archer's name will be remembered after all.

Rev Akasha Lonsdale feared no one would come to Olive's funeral and appealed for anyone who knew her to come forward.

Now Olive's send-off will be a less lonely affair, as Swindon people who knew her have vowed to attend the funeral.

Former mayor Derek Benfield recognised her from the picture.

"I remember Olive, she was a very attractive lady," he said.

"She was a wonderful person and my late sister's best friend.

"When she and my sister Eileen got together, there was a giggling session."

Mr Benfield lived in the same street as Olive and is eight years younger than her.

Olive lived with her parents in 91 Albion Street and looked after them until they died.

"I found it very sad when I read that no one would attend her funeral," said Mr Benfield.

"We all leave something behind, but it looked like Olive had left nothing.

"Now the few people who remember her will have the opportunity to mark her life."

He will give a speech at her funeral at Semington Crematorium.

Olive left Swindon about five years ago and moved into Kington St Michael care home, near Chippenham.

She is due to be buried on January 14, after dying aged 83, on December 20, from a suspected stroke.

The Rev Lonsdale says at least six people have confirmed they will attend the funeral.

"Some people who didn't know her are also going to come along as they have been moved," she said.

"It is a heartwarming response."

More details of Olive's life have emerged.

It is thought the spinster was asked to marry but refused.

She worked as a cashier in the Co-op and was described as "being her own person."

It is thought Olive definitely had a sister who has passed away.

"During her younger years it is clear she enjoyed life and loved dancing," said the Rev Lonsdale.

One old photograph of Olive shows her as a beautiful young woman wearing a fur-lined hood with snowflakes on her shoulders.

If anyone else recognises Olive or wishes to pay tribute to her life they can call the Rev Lonsdale on 01249 813188.