Cannock Soroptimists were greatly saddened recently when member Georgina Ward died after being ill for a little while.
Georgina was 93 and a stalwart member of the Club, attending all meetings and events until very recently, always with a smile on her face and a joyful greeting to everyone. Georgina was always immaculate – described as looking as if she had just stepped out of a band box! She was one of the group known fondly as “The Gals” – and sadly, she was the last one with us, Dora Leighton and June Hardman having passed away within the last 18 months.
Georgina was born in Cannock in October 1922, the second of six children born to Mr & Mrs Johnson. She began work at 16, at the haberdashers near to Taylors, and was married at 18. Her husband Stan was then conscripted, trained and sent abroad for over 4 years, when their only contact was by letter. During that time Georgina went to work at Boots in Wolverhampton; 12 years later she moved back to Cannock as the Manageress of Sketchley’s. It was during her 30 years there that she became well known by so many people in the town.
Georgina became a member of Soroptimst International in January 1973 and was very proud to be President of the club in its 25th year, 1979-80. She served on committees, held meetings at her home and supported all that Soroptimists do to educate, empower and enable women less fortunate than themselves, always displaying a very positive attitude. Georgina was particularly delighted to be made an Honorary member of SI Cannock two years ago.
Georgina – like all of ‘The Gals’ will be sadly missed by members past and present.
