Obituary: Edith Margaret Wyeth

Emdad Rahman: Edith Margaret Wyeth, a familiar East End face and cornerstone at Harry Gosling School has passed away. She died peacefully at the Royal London Hospital on 19th March 2011, aged 87.

Edith Wyeth joined Harry Gosling School during the 60's and served as Secretary and a whole host of roles until her retirement in 1990. She even had a stint as a teacher during 35-40 years of exemplary service to her community.

Nobody was homesick, be it a residential sojourn or a daytrip to Chalkwell Beach. Edith would accompany and help. Outings, breakfast, story telling – her energy was immense.

Miss Hurrell served as Headteacher at Harry Gosling School from 1972 onwards. During our discussion she had many fond memories to share: "When I started at Harry Gosling School in 1972, Mrs Wyeth was already a well established school Secretary."

Miss Hurrell added: "She was a wonderful Secretary. So many families would still vividly remember her.

"During the early days the Secretary collected the school dinner money and dealt with parents. Mrs Wyeth was very well known, respected and loved. Everybody knew Mrs Wyeth, and although she retired as Secretary at Harry Gosling School, she remained as a School Governor until very recent years."

Edith was also a Governor at St Paul's School, Wellclose Square. She lived at St George's and the East and had a flat within the Church grounds, where she served as a Church Warden.

"During her 20's, Edith was appointed as one of the youngest Church Wardens", said Miss Hurrell. "She carried out this role diligently and voluntarily. Many families in the East End knew her."

Edith always took part in managing the exciting school residential trips. "They were fun trips for four nights," said Miss Hurrell.

"Mrs Wyeth held a responsible role in organising the annual school fete. Oh she was always very involved, way beyond her role as School Secretary.

"She has continuously remained interested in how pupils have been doing.

"I spoke to her last January and she still maintained total interest in Harry Gosling School."

Amina Bibi Singh, a former pupil and current employee at Harry Gosling School knew Edith for many years. She said: "Edith was a pillar of Harry Gosling School and the local community. She was much loved by staff and pupils alike.

"I have been in touch with lots of friends, colleagues and ex pupils who knew Edith – she will be sorely missed.

"We all send the family our heartfelt condolences during this time of grief."

The Funeral Eucharist is on Friday 1st April, 7.15 pm at St George-in-the-East, Cannon Street Rd, London E1 0BH.

Edith's Committal and Cremation will take place on Saturday 2nd April, 12.00 midday at the City of London Crematorium, Aldersbrook Rd, E11.

Edith's funeral procession will be leaving the Church at 11.00 am.

Flowers may be sent to the Co-op Funeral Directors, 62 Chrisp St, or brought to the Church from 6.30 pm. The family have requested that no wreaths be sent. If anyone wishes, they may make a donation instead to Richard House Children's Hospice.