Obituary: Lily Edith Erith

A large congregation were present for the funeral service of Lily Edith Erith, aged 96, at St Mary’s Church, Wortham on Monday, January 5.

The service was conducted by Rev Ginny Manning with organist Rev Nigel Ballard, and began with the welcome and opening prayer. A tribute was read by Mrs Erith’s great granddaughter Lauren, and a poem was read by great grandson Josh, with reflections by Rev Ginny Manning.

Mrs Erith was the youngest of five children, but lost her twin brother who died in the war as a Japanese prisoner of war. Family life began at Mendham, moving onto Woodton. She worked in service, where she learnt to cook. She also worked at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, where it is thought she met her husband Doug. They were married in Norwich and moved to Spiers Hill, Wortham where they bought the Magpie Pub when it closed as a pub. They farmed there with pigs, chickens and turkeys, of which Mrs Erith did her part, as well as caring for her home and family.

The couple enjoyed playing dominoes at many local pubs and also horse racing at Great Yarmouth. After Mr Erith died Mrs Erith went to live with daughter Carol, and then moved into the Limes at Mellis.

There were many family, neighbours, friends and domino players in the congregation.

Committal took place in the churchyard and Mrs Erith was buried next to her beloved grandson, Ade, who sadly died in May 2000.

Family mourners were Rosie Fox, Mr and Mrs David Erith and Mr and Mrs Tony Baker.

Mrs Erith leaves three children, nine grandchildren, 24 great grandchildren and five great great grandchildren. Donations should go to The Limes Residents Fund and Friends of Botesdale Health Centre, c/o Rosedale Funeral Home, 63 Victoria Road, Diss, Norfolk IP22 4JE