Lorna Ridsdale4 February 2008

Lorna Ridsdale

Lorna Ridsdale died suddenly at her home in Thames Ditton on January 28th 2008, with her son, Neil at her side. She had lived in the area since 1950. She met her husband, the late Group Captain Philip Ridsdale in 1941, whilst they were air force officers in the war. She had four children, Brian, Geoff, Leone and Neil. Lorna loved the adventure of travelling with Philip, living in Norway, the United States, Singapore and Turkey, but hated the moving itself. Between postings, she enjoyed decorating her home in the UK, and was a keen gardener.

After her children had grown up, Lorna trained as a Yoga teacher, and taught classes in Elmbridge, focussing latterly on Yoga for the less able, which she continued till 2005. Lorna organized the Old People's Fellowship which met in the parish hall in Thames Ditton. She took this seriously, making many friends who supported her. After passing on this work, she continued visiting the elderly. She played social tennis; her group of 'golden oldies' at Ember Sports Club arranged weekly games, summer and winter, when their average age was 85.

Lorna was a cheerful companion to family and friends. She had lovely stories about the quotidian aspects of life, which brought a smile to the lips. She took pleasure planning social gatherings for her children and 15 grandchildren, with her own light touch. This continued through 2007, when she organized a 60th birthday party for her daughter at the RAF Club, and a trip to the pantomime. At Christmas she went to gatherings at Geoff and Brian's homes, then flew to Luxor with Leone and her daughters for New Year. Here she enjoyed one of her favourite pleasures, lying with a book in the sunshine. Those who knew her will miss her lively presence. She lived life courageously and to the full.

Leone Ridsdale