Pauline France (1956-2012)

It was with great sadness that we learned of the death of Pauline who died in hospital on the 18th March 2012 aged 55 years.

We do not know the time, place, date of our passing, however this does not, in any way, mitigate the heartfelt sense of loss or grief felt by those loved ones and family members left behind.

The memories of loved ones and close family members are always more personal and intimate than those of friends, colleagues and in the case of ourselves fellow re –enactors.

Pauline was born in West Leigh. She was christened at 12 Apostle Church in Leigh where she was also married and sadly was the place of her funeral. Pauline and her husband Brian lived in the same street, grew up together and married in 1977-indeed last year they celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary on camp. Pauline and Brian joined the ACWS in 2003 coincidentally their first event was at Sewerby Hall 9 years ago. From the start both Pauline and Brian played a full and active part in camp life, especially since joining the 43rd North Carolina Regiment. Pauline had an infectious laugh and both a jovial presence and outlook on life and needless to say was a ‘diehard confederate’, although I am told she did have a few ‘Yankee’ friends. Both Pauline and Brian were very much family orientated. Their son Paul joined the 43rd N.C. and latterly the 18th Virginia and they brought their grand children along to many events.

I am informed that Pauline enjoyed Country Music and was partial to a little willy (all who knew her will, I am told, understand).Pauline was gregarious in nature and consequently made many friends, was very approachable with a lovely smile, much warmth and was always ‘ready to party’.

Pauline will be remembered (although sadly missed-but never forgotten) in many different ways by all of us who had the pleasure and privilege of knowing her, not only in the 43rd N.C. but also the wider ACWS family. Pauline will be remembered in memories, anecdotes stories, reminiscences around the campfires in the evenings and days to come.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Brian, Paul, Rachel, Sonya and grandchildren Owen, Luke and Kelsey as well as to all her immediate family and friends.

Denis Jarwick
Chairman ACWS
Posted 27th April 2012.

Webmaster Footnote: Sincere apologies for not posting any notice of Pauline's passing sooner. I was away on holiday that week and I've only just received the details above.