Rosemary Ashley

A service to celebrate the life of Rosemary Frances Ashley, 70, was attended by a large congregation at St Bartholomew's Church, Royal Wootton Bassett, where Mrs Ashley was closely involved with the Flower Guild and the Ladies Guild for many years, and was a former chorister and bellringer.

Rosemary spent part of her childhood in Australia, where her father was serving with the RAF.

The family settled in Wootton Bassett on their return to the UK, and Rosemary attended John Bentley School in Calne. She made friends through the church youth club, where she first met her husband Viv.

Rosemary went on to Bishop Stortford College to train as a primary school teacher, and subsequently taught at various schools.

She and Viv, who was the church organist, were married at St Bartholomew's Church 48 years ago, and have a son David, daughters Suzanne and Jennifer and four grandchildren.

The Rev Canon Jane Curtis spoke of Rosemary's full life, her involvement with her family and church, and her skills in flower arranging and in crafts.

These included creating greetings cards, a topic on which she led informative sessions for the Ladies Guild. She was also an excellent cook and keen gardener, and is remembered as a creative, colourful person who used to enjoy sailing with the family, and holidaying in Spain, where her parents lived for some years.

Amid the sadness of parting, the vicar reminded mourners: "God's love never deserts us. Rosemary remains in our hearts, in our wonderful memories, and in God's love."

The anthem The Lord's My Shepherd was sung by a combined choir, including some choristers from Broad Town where Mr Ashley is a former organist.

Cremation took place at Kingsdown. Memorial donations for Wiltshire Air Ambulance and St Bartholomew's Flower Guild. may be sent to Johnson & Daltrey, 112 High Street, Royal Wootton Bassett.