Tributes paid to ‘heart and soul of the local community’
People from across Dudley have gathered to pay their respects to Margaret Arnold, chair of Brockmoor Community Centre who died two weeks ago.
Described as the ‘heart and soul of the local community’ the 74-year-old activist had been praised for taking on the venue and reaching out to those suffering loneliness and isolation.
Unable to attend her funeral because of Covid, friends and mourners took to the streets to say thanks and farewell as her cortège passed by the centre on route from her home in Limes Avenue to Gornal Crematorium.
Her many friends, including dozens who attended the regular popular Friday night bingo sessions she and Ken ran, wanted to wish her goodbye.
Councillor John Martin, who had liaised with her family to organise the tribute, said: “Margaret’s many friends are bereft at her passing but due to Covid restrictions it was not possible for all to attend her funeral.
“However they still wanted to say farewell and thank you to this very special lady as well as to show support to her family. Margaret helped so many people and will be remembered with great fondness.”
Her daughter, Tania Smith said, of her mother: “The centre was mum’s life and she made so many friends there and cared for each and everyone of them.
“But she was also devoted to her family as a mum, nan and great nan. Dad, Matt (brother) and myself have been extremely touched by all the kindness and words of support from everyone.”
