A THANKSGIVING service for the life of Lady Spratt is to take place in Fernhurst next month.
To be held at St Margaret's Church, on Monday, July 8 at 3 pm, the service will reflect both the compassion and the great sense of humour and fun of a woman who worked tirelessly for charity and especially the one closest to her heart - Action Research.
Lady Spratt died in January at the age of 71, after a courageous fight against cancer.
Married to a former Lord Mayor of London, Sir Greville Spratt, for 47 years, her work with the charity began almost as soon as the couple moved into their home of 21 years in Three Gates Lane and continued unabated when they moved to Kingsley Green until her death.
Adored by her family and friends, Lady Spratt had three married daughters and seven grandchildren and is remembered with great affection by all who knew her.
Alexandra Hammersley, Joanna Forbes and Georgina Webb-Bowen spoke lovingly of their mother.
"She was an incredibly passionate person, she knew how to cope with any situation - from difficult teenagers to helping someone in distress," said Mrs Hammersley.
"She was also full of life and a riot at a party."
And it is her sense of humour and dedication to Action Research that many of her friends will remember.
With her husband as national chairman of Action Research, Lady Spratt became the president of the Haslemere branch. It was a partnership which brought in more than £1million for the charity which was adopted by Sir Greville while Lord Mayor.
"Sheila didn't mind what she did for the charity; she often stood on street corners collecting. She had the best sense of humour and was always there whether it was for the charity of to give support," said longtime friend Susie Briscoe. "She is missed dreadfully."
Elizabeth Dyer spoke of a vivacious friend with "tremendous charm, commitment and who was enormous fun".
Also among her great friends were Jean and Michael Young who said: "Her humour was unique yet human.
"She is sorely missed but happily remembered.
A special concert at Guildford Cathedral in October to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Action Research will be dedicated to the memory of Lady Spratt.
For further concert details phone 01403 210406.