Margaret Lilian Donovan (18 May 1949 - 9 Apr 2026)

In loving memory of Margaret Lilian Donovan who sadly passed away on 9th April 2026

Mums Eulogy, read by Thomas

I would like to thank you all for coming today to celebrate my mum, Margarets life. Also known as, the cheeky sister to Kathleen, little Marg, Aunty Marg, Magsy, Nanny, Margaret from the council and I am sure there are many others we don't know about.

Born in 77 Talfourd Road, Peckham, daughter of John and Jenny McElligott, granddaughter of Jenny Lilian Walsh and the youngest of 6 siblings, John, Patrick, Albert, Michael and Kathleen.

When she was about 3 and a half the family moved to Farrer House, Deptford. She went to St Theresa's convent school in Belmont Hill but was always a tomboy. She loved playing football and sports with the local boys. She was able to twist her dad around her little finger, going to East Street Market and coming back with a hamster, much to her mum's horror!

She got her first job at Sainsburys Head Office on Southwark Road, a decent 9-5 job. She sometimes worked together with her sister Aunty Kath and best friend Mary (who we know as Aunts). They were always larking about and having fun.

Mum was loving, caring, protecting and always up for a laugh. That has left us with great memories, which her husband Chris, her children Julie, Jenny, Georgie and me and her grandchildren Jonathan, Erin, Ciaran and Aidan, will always cherish.

Mum often worked 3 different jobs per day to give us the best, which included holidays. Some of the most memorable were on the Norfolk Broads, with mishaps and near misses with other boats to partying on the riverbanks, which is why we went so many times, always great fun.

Mum also loved her dogs, especially Jack Russells, known to be mischievous and naughty, I sometimes wonder why she liked them so much.

She would protect her family, always being on your side. Reminds me of my school days. When I got in trouble she would go to the school, always get me off the hook, leaving the headteacher in pieces.

And Julie won't be happy if I don't mention how much she admired Mums graceful diving skills. Keep trying Julie, you'll get there.

I have a note from Aunty Mary to read as she has been unable to come today:-

"I am sorry I can't be with you all today to say farewell to Marg. We grew up together when we lived in the same block of flats and have remained good friends. The fondest memories I have are her love of music and dancing, the silly sense of humour we shared from childhood and the support and kindness she has shown me over the years - so long Mumps"

Thank you Mum for everything. You will be missed with all our hearts and never forgotten.