The Rev Michael Pevy officiated at the funeral of Violet Lewis, 99, at the United Reformed Church in Wood Street, Wootton Bassett, where she worshipped throughout her long life.

Mrs Lewis, who would have been 100 on March 6, was a member of the Angelinetta family whose forebears came from Italy, and were well known in the town's business community.

She was born at 70 High Street, and had two sisters and three brothers, of whom she was the last to remain.

Mr Pevy reminded the congregation that the church's lectern, which he used at the service, had been given in memory of Mrs Lewis' brother, Leslie Angelinetta.

He paid tribute to Mrs Lewis' quiet life of service.

"She never travelled far and led a faithful, undemanding, contented life.

"The search for God was important to her and she was an inquirer and a learner who served God here throughout her life," he said.

"She was part of the ongoing church, which was initially Congregational and is now United Reformed. "

A favourite hymn, chosen by Mrs Lewis for her funeral, was What A Friend We Have In Jesus, and as the cortege left the church the congregation sang In Heavenly Love Abiding.

The service was followed by interment at Wootton Bassett Cemetery, after which everyone was welcomed to refreshments at the United Reformed Church Hall. The original commemorative Wootton Bassett Congregational Church crockery, which is brought out only on special occasions, was in use, as a final tribute to Mrs Lewis.

Until two years ago, when she moved into the care of Ridgeway House, she lived at New Road, Wootton Bassett, where she and her late husband, Ray (from Purton), made their home as newly weds in the mid-1930s. Mr Lewis died in 1976.

The couple's son John and daughter in law Laraine live in Swindon; there are three grandsons and five great-grandchildren, with a sixth expected in May.

Memorial cheques, for Ridgeway House, may be sent to Maslin Funeral Service, 118a High Street, Wootton Bassett.