Doreen Sheard (15 Oct 1941 - 10 Oct 2025)

In loving memory of Doreen Vera Sheard who sadly passed away on 10th October 2025 aged 83 years.

Mum was born on October 15, 1941, at Mill Road Maternity Hospital in Cambridge, at approximately 4 p.m., the cherished daughter of Vera and Fred Ashberry. She spent her early years at 10 Springfield Road, Cambridge, growing up in a modest terraced home filled with love and warmth, even having to brave chilly winters bundled in coats and scarves to visit the outdoor loo!

Mum’s earliest memories paint a vivid picture of her childhood during the tumultuous times of World War II. She recalled her mother's comforting smile as she lay in her pram, the sound of planes overhead, and being carried along Chesterton Road by her father while German aircraft passed above. Her childhood was marked by the affection of family, amusing tales from Great Uncle Henry Kelly, and the occasional fright that sparked her imagination and dreams.

Mum started Primary School in Cambridge at the age of five. Though school was not her favourite place, her experiences there—both joyful and challenging—helped shape her resilience and character. She never forgot the lessons learned and the memories made in those early years.

Mum made lifelong friends, first with her friend Jenny during Junior School, and their friendship endured for over seventy years. Upon attending an all-girls Grammar School, she formed numerous friendships; however, a core group of four remained close until 2006, when Maggie sadly passed away from ovarian cancer at the age of sixty-five, leaving Jenny, Barbara, and Mum.

After finishing school in December 1957, Mum began her professional journey as a secretary to the Examinations Board at the Cambridge University Registry Office. Her office, located directly opposite the majestic bay window of King's College Chapel, provided a unique backdrop where the melodies of choir practice often accompanied her work. Thick stone walls kept the building cool even in summer, prompting her and her colleagues to don cardigans indoors. During warmer days, Mum enjoyed peaceful lunchtimes on the banks of the River Cam, watching the punters glide by—a simple pleasure that is no longer permitted today. Her role was both engaging and rewarding, as she assisted in organising examinations and visas for medical students, occasionally interacting with distinguished professionals, including eminent gynaecologists. One memorable experience included looking after Derek Jacobi when he was unwell during an exam, ensuring he had the support he needed while maintaining exam integrity. Mum also cherished the privilege of attending Honorary Degree Ceremonies in the Senate House, further enriching her early career with remarkable memories and encounters.

Mum loved to dance and started tap and ballet initially to strengthen her ankle after she broke it at the age of six. During her young adulthood, Mum became an enthusiastic member of the Cambridge Dancers’ Club, where she embraced Ballroom, Latin, and Formation dancing. Her involvement with the club not only brought her joy and friendships but also gave her the opportunity to teach beginners and connect with students from all walks of life. It was here that she met several dance partners, and eventually Dad. Their romance began with a memorable moment at a tea-dance at the Dorothy Café in Cambridge—just as they began to dance, Dad slipped and Mum tumbled on top of him, a story she delighted in retelling, saying she truly “fell” for him that day.

Saturdays spent meeting up with friends at college, sharing coffee, music, and wagon wheels, and punting along the river. Her early relationships, usually lasting no more than a couple of months, reflected her lively spirit and independence, but meeting Dad—then a Ph.D. student at St John’s College—changed her path. His unique background, independent nature, and willingness to challenge her made him stand out, and their partnership became the foundation of her adult life.

Mum’s openness to new experiences led her abroad at just sixteen, when she travelled to Italy with a neighbour. There, she formed a special connection with an Italian pen pal, corresponding in French as neither spoke the other’s language. These warm adventures and friendships, both local and international, contributed to the vibrant tapestry of her life.

Mum and Dad were engaged in March 1960 and married six months later, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with love and adventure. Their wedding reception was held in the Wordsworth Room at St John’s College, a cherished venue for such a special occasion. After the festivities, they spent their first night as newlyweds in London, where Dad, ever thoughtful, enjoyed a piece of their wedding cake in a cosy café. The following morning, Dad surprised Mum with her very first flight—booked in secret—up to Glasgow on a propeller plane, a gesture that deeply impressed her. Their honeymoon continued with a scenic train ride to Fort William, where they made memories that would last a lifetime. Remarkably, it was 47 years before they returned to stay at the same hotel, now beautifully extended and modernised, revisiting the place where their journey as a married couple began.

After a year spent in Berkeley, California, Mum and Dad returned to England in 1963 and settled in Bramcote. While in America, Mum worked in San Francisco and together they bought their first car, beginning a lifelong fondness for big vehicles. Their time abroad was filled with travel and cherished friendships. Back in England, they welcomed three children—Adrian, Mel, and Hayley—whose achievements brought them pride and happiness. In 1972, the family embraced another adventure with a year in Australia, overcoming even a marathon 43-hour journey to Sydney.

A holiday to Jordan in 1987, where Mum roomed with Audrey Rooker (a friend of over 35 years), led her to become a tour manager. This new role took her to the Middle East and inspired her to begin learning Arabic in her 40s—never shying from a challenge or a new adventure and always finding the humour and joy along the way.

In 1990, Mum left her college position to become a tour manager, a role that took her around the world over 19 years. She embraced new cultures, formed lasting friendships, and navigated many adventures and challenges with gratitude for Fred’s support at home. During breaks between tours, she contributed for over a decade to the Speech and Language Therapy department, retiring at 68 in 2009. Even after a cancer operation in 2006, Mum’s dedication and resilience shone through, and she continued to work as long as possible. Throughout their lives, Mum and Dad welcomed many remarkable colleagues from the Physics Department into their home, building lasting connections across the globe.

Dance, theatre, and drama were central to Mums life. She joined several groups, including the University Assistants Drama Group in Cambridge, Bramcote Hills, and Nottingham Theatre Club. Over the years, she acted, directed, served as secretary and trustee, and contributed to various behind-the-scenes roles, and helped archive the club’s historic records, a project that continues to this day.

Throughout her life, Mum remained deeply connected to her family, friends, and community. Her journey from childhood in Cambridge to adulthood was filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. She will be remembered for her warmth, her strength, and the rich tapestry of stories she shared with those around her.