Frances Moseley: Popular no-nonsense councillor who dedicated her life to others (From Surrey Comet)
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Frances Moseley: Popular no-nonsense councillor who dedicated her life to others
5:30am Saturday 12th January 2013 in News By Ross Logan, Chief Reporter
Frances Moseley: Popular no-nonsense councillor who dedicated her life to others
Politicians, residents, teachers and friends gathered to pay their last respects to a much-loved Kingston councillor this week.
The funeral of Liberal Democrat Councillor Frances Moseley on Thursday saw colleagues from all political parties come together at Surbiton cemetery on Thursday, to say goodbye to the Berrylands representative, who died of cancer aged 67 on December 18.
A former teacher, she was serving as lead member for better homes, co-chairwoman of the place and sustainability committee and vice-chairwoman of the development control committee at the time of her death.
Known for her no-nonsense approach, she garnered even greater respect for the manner in which she battled her illness, carrying out council work from the Princess Alice Hospice just days before she died.
Her popularity was borne out when at least 150 people turned out for the service, with many having to stand outside, unable to fit into the small chapel.
Her coffin was then buried on top of that of her late husband, Richard.
Among the mourners was Kingston and Surbiton MP Edward Davey. He said: “The huge turnout shows how Frances was respected by residents, officers and councillors across all political parties.
“As I have said before, she is one of the best councillors I have ever worked with.”
Council leader Councillor Derek Osbourne said: “The fact so many people had to wait outside proves how popular she was.
“There are people here from all parties, from posh houses and council houses, from school activities and residents associations.
“I think that says how she managed to touch everybody she came into contact with.”
Coun Moseley’s son, Charles said: “From the family point of view we want to thanks everyone for coming.
“It is recognition that she had lots of friends and supporters in the community."
