Mavis MargarettaGILLESPIEIt is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mavis Margaretta Gillespie (née Jeremiah), who died peacefully on 27th September 2025 at Avery Park Care Home, Kettering, aged 85.
Mavis' life began in dramatic fashion, born during an air raid in 1939 in Farnborough, Hampshire, to David and Ivy Jeremiah. She attended Farnborough Hills Girls' School, playing Lacrosse and Hockey on their sloping pitch, before training as a State Registered Nurse and Midwifery at Guy's Hospital, London. It was there she met her first husband, Keith Hughes. As the wife of an army doctor (married name Hughes), Mavis' early married life took her across the world, with postings in Africa and Singapore, before settling in Fleet, Hampshire, in 1974.
In Fleet she joined Frimley Park Hospital as a midwife working nights, later serving as a much-loved Community Midwife until her retirement in 2004. Many families will remember her calm presence and kindness during life's most important moments.
It was also in Fleet that she met her second husband, Alan Gillespie, who sadly passed away in 2019.
Mavis is survived by her children, her grandchildren, and the many friends whose lives she touched. The family wish to express their heartfelt thanks to the staff at Avery Park Care Home for their devoted care in her final years.
In lieu of flowers, we invite you to raise a glass-or a mug of tea-in memory of Mavis: to her love of life, her wicked sense of humour, and her unwavering belief in seeing the good in people.
Though she is no longer with us, her warmth, enthusiasm, and spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Funeral Details: The service of Mavis Gillespie will at 15:00 (BST) on Wednesday 8th October, at Kettering - Edgar Newman Crematorium, run by Averil Phillips & Family Independent Funeral Directors. If you would like to make a Donation in aid of Frimley Park Hospital, please visit their website or www.mavisgillespie.muchloved.com/
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