Long-standing member and stalwart of The Connexion, Margaret Staplehurst, has recently passed. Below is a short tribute, highlighting some of her many interests and achievements.

Appreciation of Margaret Staplehurst by Brenda Baldwin

This is just a short appreciation of Margaret. Others will have known her longer than me and can speak of her involvement in youth conference in earlier days. I think from what Brian has told me that there was a lot of fun, some high jinks, but above all lasting friendships were made.

Then there was Margaret’s unflagging interest in Sierra Leone, and her many links with people and churches there over 40, perhaps even 50 years. Equally important was her outstanding and knowledgeable contribution to the SLM over the same length of time.

I knew Margaret as the de facto Keeper of The Connexion’s archives, mostly kept in her house. There were old Trustee minutes, those of different chapels now closed, newspaper cuttings and a wide range of ephemera. Margaret dealt with innumerable enquiries with great knowledge, interest and patience. She was the “go to” person for the history of the Connexion.

But above all I remember Margaret as being devoted to Douglas and his well-being in their very happy marriage, and for her continuing prayers and love for Jenny and Mike and the family.

Brian and I held Margaret (and Douglas) in the highest regard for their faith, faithfulness, integrity and winsomeness. Margaret was another stalwart of The Connexion, but much more importantly, she loved Jesus and his kingdom very dearly. It is good to know that she is now resting with her Lord and other saints in glory.