Kathleen RuthTERRILL2 February 1941 – 28 January 2025
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Kathleen Ruth Terrill, who left us peacefully on Tuesday, 28 January 2025, at the age of 83, surrounded by her family.
Beloved wife of the late Maurice, Kathleen and Maurice married at Ashcott Church, Somerset, in 1959, beginning a life together filled with love, dedication, and family. They spent their honeymoon at Burrowhayes Farm, Horner Wood, just outside Porlock—an area they both adored. Their love for Exmoor, Porlock, Dunster, and the surrounding villages remained strong throughout their lives, and their family still carries on that tradition today.
Kathleen and Maurice both retired from Clarks Shoes in their early 50s, embracing a long and happy retirement together.
She was a devoted mother to Debra and Sharon, a cherished grandmother to Holly, Summer, and Ethan, and a loving great-grandmother to Jackson and Milo.
A strong, practical, and driven woman, Kathleen’s greatest passion was caring for her family and those around her. She lovingly supported Maurice through his battle with Myasthenia Gravis, showing the same quiet resilience and devotion that defined her life. Even when facing her own illness, she chose to keep it private, always putting others before herself.
She found joy in creating a beautiful sanctuary in her garden, a place of peace and care that reflected her nurturing nature. Her generosity and kindness touched many lives, and her smile could light up any room.
Dogs were a constant presence in their lives, from their first years of marriage to later in life, each one a beloved companion. After Maurice’s passing, her faithful dog Alfie became her devoted companion, bringing her comfort and companionship until he passed at 16 and a half years old.
A service to celebrate Kathleen’s life will be held at the North Devon Crematorium on Wednesday, 12 February 2025, at 10:20 am, followed by a gathering of close friends and family at The Park Hotel, Barnstaple.
Family flowers only, please. Donations in Kathleen’s memory can be made to North Devon Hospice, whose wonderful support and care meant so much to her and the whole family.
Her family shares these words in tribute:
"This isn’t the end. As Rumi said, ‘Goodbyes are only for those who love with their eyes. For those who love with heart and soul, there is no such thing as separation.’"
Mum, your love is everywhere. You and Dad were determined to build a beautiful home, A place filled with warmth, care, and the garden you both cherished. Everything you did, you did with love— Not just for yourselves, but for all of us.
Family was your heart. Your greatest purpose was to love, nurture, and support us, To make sure we were okay—no matter what. You gave so much of yourself, even when it wasn’t always easy. You stood by those you loved, through everything.
Now, you and Dad are together again. "Death has nothing to do with going away. The sun sets, the moon sets, but they are not gone."
Mum, you are here, always. In our hearts, in our memories, in the love you left behind.
Always.
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