Mollie Edwards, 100, was known to many people in Royal Wootton Bassett, where she was a lifelong resident, and cycled regularly until she was in her nineties. Despite being given the name Margaret, she was always known as Mollie.

The funeral cortege to Bartholomew's Church last Thursday,was led by Mollie’s grandson Lance, on her familiar old bicycle, with its basket full of daffodils.

Tributes at the service recalled Mrs Edwards’ skills as a homemaker and gardener, who was devoted to her family, worked hard and was kind, generous, and fiercely independent.

She was the last survivor of her parents’ 12 children, and died five weeks before her 101st birthday.

In earlier years, living at Morstone Road, she came into contact with many people through her voluntary work as a house-to-house collector for the NSPCC, the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal and the National Savings Scheme, for which she gained an award for 15 years’ service.

She also participated actively in the Women’s Voluntary Service, and received a long service medal. She was also a former member of the Mothers’ Union.

Mollie and her late husband Jack had one son, Mesney, and the family has grown to include three grandchildren and two great grandchildren, who gave her much joy.

She liked to regale visitors with tales of her father, his scrap yard in Phelps Lane and all her siblings.

She continued to keep in touch with many relatives and friends, particularly at Christmas.

Diana Giles, a friend, said: “A kinder, more genuine person you could not wish to know, yet she had no airs and graces, and always called a spade a spade.”

Mollie, who received a card from the Queen for her centenary last year, will be missed by many people. Many reminiscences were shared over refreshments at The Croft, following the funeral service and burial, conducted by the Rev Richard Selby-Boothroyd at the town cemetery.

Memorial donations for the NSPCC may be sent ca/o Maslin Funeral Service, 118a High Street, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7AU.