Gillian Mamie Sherratt
I lost a very dear friend (and 3rd cousin), Gillian Sherratt. Although I never met Gill in person we have communicated across the oceans for almost two decades. We first "met" through our love of family history back in the early 2000s. About 2014 we reconnected with annual Christmas letters. Covid brought us even closer with almost daily letters. She was a bright, kind, loving woman who I will never forget.
Daughter of Frank Raymond Sherratt and Mable (Mamie) Poulson. Sister to Peter Hugh Percival Sherratt and Frank Brian Sherratt.
Gill was born in Durban, Natal South Africa. Her parents emigrated to South Africa in 1921 perhaps to join her mother's brother James Poulson who was already there. Father, Frank was an engineer and fitter for the South African Railways and Harbours.
Gill was educated at Malvern High just outside Durban. She had a very busy youth participating in Girl Guides, a love of horse riding, piano lessons and helping out at Sunday school. On Friday evenings Gill enjoyed attending talks on music and poetry with the Arts League of Youth. Gill received a BSc degree at Natal University majoring in Chemistry and Geography and went on to receive a BScHonours degree in Geography.
Gills parents returned to England after her father retired. Gill followed in 1957 and spent two terms teaching at Chichester High in West Sussex and a year at Exeter University to gain a full teaching dipolma. She then spent six years teaching Geography in East Sussex at Lewes Grammar School. Gill returned to Natal for two years with her parents but returned after her father's death in 1977 to teach in Chichester.
Gillian had a very active life in her community particularly with her work with the Riding for the Disabled group and her Ambling group along the shores of Bracklesham beach. Over her life Gil travelled around the world on safaris in Africa, cruises to Canada and Europe and many ports around the world. She had a deep love of gardening, horses, travel, reading and learning.
Gill leaves behind a very close knit group of friends who she had a deep love and appreciation for. She also leaves many friends and distant cousins around the world, myself included, who she kept in touch with. She also leaves her precious dog Daisy.
I will miss you Gillian.
Photo provided by Gillian Sherratt
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