A Cumbrian woman described as a 'wonder woman' and 'pillar of the community' by her family tragically passed away in August. 

Alice Oglanby, of Maryport, sadly passed away in late August after a lifetime of showing support for all those in her community. 

As a wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother she would be endlessly and tirelessly designing, knitting, and crocheting garments for the whole family.

Alice, then Miller, met her husband Brian as a teenager and they married soon after. They were married for 63 years and celebrated their Diamond Wedding in 2020. 

Times and Star: Alice and Brian on their wedding day Alice and Brian on their wedding day (Image: Newsquest)

She strongly supported and lobbied for the “Save Our Cottage Hospital” campaign, set up in Maryport to ensure the funding and continued operation of the much-loved and badly needed hospital.

Alice was also instrumental in securing the funding to keep beds in the Palliative Care Unit.

Crosscannonby Community Centre was Alice’s second home where she was a prominent and very active committee member and Trustee for over 15 years.

Alice campaigned year after year to keep the Centre not only functional but prospering, she secured a substantial grant from the ‘National Lottery Funding’ for the installation of the new kitchen and toilets in the Centre. 

Times and Star: Alice and Brian cutting their wedding cake Alice and Brian cutting their wedding cake (Image: Newsquest)

Her family said: "Alice was an incredible, positive influence on all who had the pleasure of her company, a totally selfless person with the generosity of a saint.

"Her ceaseless giving and contribution to people's lives, in so many ways, had an immediate and everlasting impact. 

"Her sense of humour and giggles were infectious, Alice knew how to brighten a room with just a few words.

"Alice's intellect, business skills and level of understanding of the financial landscape were impeccable."

Times and Star: Alice and Brian in their later years Alice and Brian in their later years (Image: Newsquest)

On the Coronation of King Charles III, the Crosscannonby St. Johns C of E Primary School fell outside the catchment area for the pupils to receive memorabilia. Alice picked up on this and set to from the Community Centre to raise funds for the children to ALL receive a special coronation medal.

‘Hospice at Home West Cumbria’ was one of Alice’s favourite charity-funded organisations, she was passionate about the level and quality of service and care HAHWC gave so selflessly to patients and families in their time of need.

Times and Star: Alice Oglanby Alice Oglanby (Image: Crosscannonby Community Centre)

Alice would organise and run the annual ‘Crosscannonby Village BBQ’ from her home and garden in The Granary, this was all in aid of HAHWC.