Lorna Blakeney (née Shepherdson) passed away peacefully on 28th June 2024, at the age of 88. Born in Alexandria, Egypt, to Edna and Frederic Shepherdson, Lorna spent her childhood in Egypt, becoming fluent in English, French, and Italian. She later attended Cheltenham Ladies’ College in England.
After moving to England permanently, Lorna worked as a trilingual shorthand secretary in London and later taught shorthand. In 1960, she met Brian on a coach to the Costa Brava, Spain. They married on July 7, 1962, and settled in Catford before moving to Coulsdon in 1968. Together, they raised four children: Susan, Simon, Beverley, and Christopher.
Lorna was a woman of many talents. A skilled pianist, she earned a teaching diploma and taught piano at home while raising her children. She sang with the prestigious Bach choir and the Downland Chorale, traveling and performing internationally. Always eager to learn, Lorna pursued a part-time law degree at London University and later taught law at Croydon College.
A webcast will be available, please contact BC Baker & Son for details
Later in life, Lorna faced macular degeneration, which left her visually impaired. She mastered various gadgets to maintain her independence and volunteered with the Macular Society to help others adapt to sight loss. Her generosity touched many lives, including that of a blind junior barrister she assisted with a magnifying device.
In 2012, Lorna and Brian moved to Caterham, where Lorna organized conversation groups in French and Italian and enjoyed socializing with friends. They celebrated their diamond wedding anniversary in 2022 with family and friends.
In 2023, Lorna and Brian moved into Elizabeth Court care home, where she received excellent care. Lorna remained active and engaged until the end, arranging to speak French with a staff member's daughter studying for her A-levels.
Lorna is survived by her husband Brian, her children Susan, Simon, Beverley, and Christopher, and her grandchildren. She will be sadly missed by those who knew her.
Committal
DATE AND TIME
Thursday 25th July 2024, 2:30pm
ADDRESS
Croydon Crematorium, Mitcham Road, Croydon, CR9 3AT
Reception
DATE AND TIME
Thursday 25th July 2024, 3:45pm
ADDRESS
The Boundary On The Green, Guards Avenue, Caterham, Surrey, CR3 5XL
If arrangements change
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