Gillian Mary Williamson (29 Mar 1946 - 25 May 2026)

In loving memory of Gillian Mary Williamson who sadly passed away on 25th May 2026.
Gillian was born in Darley Infirmary, Derbyshire in 1946 to devoted parents William and Molly Wagstaff.
Gillian had four siblings: elder brother Perry and sister Wendy, followed by her younger sister Molly and brother Peter. William and Molly nurtured strong family values; wherever they went or whatever they did, they did as a family. Family came first.
Gillian married George, and they raised a family of four children together: Keeley; Donna; Clark and Scott.
The family values that had been so lovingly instilled into Gillian as a child, were carried into her own family, creating a unique and strong, loving unit.
Gillian was an adored 'Nan' to nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; soon to be five.
Gillian was extremely hard working. She kept a spotless home; one which she decorated herself, right up until her health prevented her from doing so. She also had a beautiful garden, that she and George enjoyed working in together. Gillian spending hours 'dead heading' and tending to her many pots and hanging baskets.
Gillian also worked outside the home - working in retail for much of her working life. She especially enjoyed her time at the Vanity Box in Mansfield, where she worked until her retirement.
But it wasn't all work and no play for Gillian. Gillian had a zest for life and adventure, travelling the globe extensively. It would be easier to list the countries Gillian didn't visit, rather than the ones she did. From Safaris in Africa, Niagara Falls in Canada to bazaars in Morocco. She also loved to visit her sister Wendy in Agistri, Greece (although she found the journey arduous) and spending time with her sister Molly and brother in law Malc in Spain. She was sociable and outgoing, being a member of 'Sherwood Ladies', where she enjoyed performing in amateur dramatic shows.
If Gillian had to be described in one word, it would most certainly be 'glamorous'! She was always immaculately dressed, with matching hat, shoes and handbag. She had an impressive shoe and handbag collection! Pristine hair to flawless makeup - she would never step outside the house unless fully 'made up'!
As the years passed, Gillian enjoyed being out in nature. Whether walking in Derbyshire with her children and grandchildren, or more local walks in Clumber Park, Rufford and Carr Bank with George. Later in life she especially treasured the times she and George enjoyed outings with their youngest grandchild Luca.
Sadly, Gillian was diagnosed with Vascular Dementia and her life changed beyond recognition. For years George cared for his wife at home, until her condition worsened and he had to make the heartbreaking decision to relinquish the care of his beloved wife. Gillian moved into a care home, where she remained until her passing.
She will forever be remembered by those that knew and loved her, as a strong, independent, vivacious lady. For her daughters, granddaughters and great-granddaughters , she was a powerful female role model. One that will be forever loved and forever missed.