Diana MargaretSAVILL(née Partridge) We are announcing the sad news of the death of Diana Margaret Savill, who died peacefully at her home in Lower Loxhore on 20th November 2025, in the company of her husband, Les and children, Debbie and David.
Diana was a beloved wife to Les for 67 years, and adored by her children Debbie and David, her seven grandchildren, her sister, Mary and her nieces and nephew. She was much loved by her friends and neighbours across the community of Loxhore and very active, supporting multiple village events and fundraisers for 38 years, including writing some fabulous Christmas pantos, short plays and arranging and leading the choir.
Diana who grew up in Signal Terrace, Barnstaple was a pupil at the Barnstaple Girls' Grammar School from 1946-1955. She went on to graduate as a musician and teacher in 1958 from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. She was also an associate of the Guildhall and The Royal College of Music. Over 65 years, she taught 100s of pupils clarinet, piano, and singing. Many of her pupils went on to become professional musicians themselves. Diana taught music (perepetetic and class) at many North Devon Schools including: Our Lady's Primary School, Brayford Primary School, Park School, West Buckland, and Cyprus Terrace and Braunton Comprehensive School.
She was also an accomplished local author writing under the pen name Dia Webb. Her books which tell the story of her family and of North Devon during the Second World War have been featured on Radio Devon and the North Devon Journal.
"Just Making Do" and "Just Moving On" are much loved by readers of all ages and a testament to her love of North Devon and its people.
Diana enriched the lives of so many people and will be greatly missed.
Diana's funeral will be held at The North Devon Crematorium at 10am on Monday 15th December.
Family flowers only please. Donations made in memory of Diana are to benefit North Devon Hospice and Young Musicians Support and can be left via a retiring collection or c/o W S Gayton & Son, Pickett Meadow, Old School Lane, Fremington, Barnstaple EX31 3UP
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