Denton a village in South Norfolk, England

Deirdre (De) Hayward 1948 - 2017

From the Parish News – April 2017

Died 6th February 2017 - Aged 69 Years

It was with great shock and sadness that we heard the news of the sudden death of this much loved lady who had only been diagnosed with cancer a few months previously.

Mike and De moved to Denton around thirteen years ago from the Nottingham area. De was soon taking a part in the village community becoming involved in a wide range of activities. One of the first places where she made her mark was as a member of the Gardening Club where she joined the committee and became Programme Secretary, organising a wide range of speakers and excursions for the members.

She also proved to be quite a talented member of the Art Club which she attended for several years. In 2008 she joined the Denton Variety Club and soon showed her ability on the stage where she brought humour into a variety of the characters she played - she took part in every production until 2016 when she played the part of Nanny “Prunella Fudge”.

De's love of children led her to play a major role in helping to revive the “Rising Stars'' section of the DVC which is so important in encouraging the youngsters in the village to take part and overcome their shyness and inhibitions on the stage. Her association with the DVC also brought her to sing with the “Dentones'' village singing group who entertain us on a variety of occasions.

The love of children also found her a place in St. Edmund's School Bungay where she originally volunteered to listen to the children read. However she gradually became more and more involved with the school to finally receive the accolade of Vice-chair of the School Governors.

The more serious side of her abilities was also shown as she helped at the “Credit Union'' run by South Norfolk District Council.

One of her relaxations was taking long walks with her dog Benson who was one of the line of her much loved Basset Hounds.

Whatever the subject of her wide range of activities, De brought a real sense of purpose coupled with good humour, her valued contribution was always appreciated.

We offer our deepest sympathy and condolences to her beloved husband Mike, and their sons Ashley and Anthony, with their families including their three grandchildren.

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