Community Mourns Angela Alder, Beloved Mayor and Advocate

The community of Sawbridgeworth gathered to bid farewell to Angela Alder, a respected former mayor and dedicated community advocate, during a heartfelt funeral service on January 12, 2024. Angela’s passing at the age of 93 on December 18, 2023, prompted an outpouring of tributes from those whose lives she touched over the decades.

As the funeral cortege made its way down Bell Street and into Church Street, mourners lined the pavements, demonstrating the profound impact Angela had on the community. The service took place at Great St Mary’s Church, where her coffin was carried in to the strains of “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole, setting a poignant tone for the gathering.

Angela’s daughter, Pippa, reflected on her mother’s unwavering support, particularly during difficult times. She shared that when Pippa was left to raise young children after the death of her husband, Colin, Angela was her “rock.” This sentiment resonated with many attendees who had experienced Angela’s nurturing spirit.

Family members highlighted the warmth and joy that filled the Alder home in Spellbrook. Angela’s great-grandson eloquently expressed that his “gran, gran” had “truly made a difference” in their lives, emphasizing that she would be “forever loved, forever missed, and forever in our hearts.”

During the service, a grandson praised Angela for her positive outlook on life, stating, “Gran lived a full life and achieved so much. She was a true community hero.” Her granddaughter, Sarah, recounted countless memories with Angela, noting her pride in being her granddaughter and recognizing Angela’s numerous contributions featured in local newspapers.

Following the family tributes, the choir of Great St Mary’s sang “The Lord’s My Shepherd.” Rev Sara Batts-Neale addressed the congregation, sharing how upon her arrival in Sawbridgeworth, it was clear how deeply loved Angela and her husband Ron were by the community.

Angela Alder’s legacy includes her notable service as a four-time mayor of Sawbridgeworth. She was a town councillor and served two terms on East Herts Council. Among her accolades, she received the Outstanding Achievement title at the 2022 Indies Community Awards, and in May 2024, she was awarded the Freedom of the Town of Sawbridgeworth, which she described as “a huge honour.”

Having moved to Spellbrook in 1961 with Ron, Angela became increasingly involved in local affairs. She was elected to the Sawbridgeworth Urban District Council and was an active participant in the PTA at Spellbrook Primary. Her commitment extended to children’s activities, chairing the management committee of the Sawbridgeworth Young People’s Recreation Committee (SYPRC).

Professionally, Angela contributed to the National Health Service (NHS) for five years before becoming the chief officer for the former West Essex Community Health Council, a role she held until her retirement in 1994.

The community’s mourning for Angela comes shortly after the death of another local stalwart, Roger Beeching, who passed away at the age of 86. Roger, a long-serving town councillor and National Health dentist, was honored with an MBE for his services to the community. His private funeral occurred on January 9, 2024, followed by a memorial service at Leventhorpe School.

As Sawbridgeworth remembers Angela Alder, her spirit as a dedicated community champion and loving family member will continue to inspire and resonate with those she left behind.