'She was loved and respected by all parties': Tributes as Dudley councillor dies
A councillor who has served Dudley residents for the past eight years has died after suffering a long-term illness.
Tributes have been paid to 'loved and respected' Mary Roberts, who had represented the St James's ward since 2007.
Councillor Roberts, who was re-elected to the ward in 2011 and in May this year, was vice-chairwoman of the authority's audit and standards committee.
Councillor Steve Waltho, Mayor of Dudley, said: "Our thoughts are with Mary's closest friends and family at this very sad time.
"Mary served the council with great honour over the best part of the last decade and she will certainly be missed by all."
Councillor Roberts was also a member of the council's health scrutiny committee, licensing and safety committee and the Castle and Priory, St Thomas's and St James's community forum.
Dudley North MP Ian Austin said: "Mary spent her whole life in the service of others as a great teacher and a wonderful councillor.
"Many people will have led more fulfilled lives as a result of her work as a teacher and she helped hundreds of families and local community groups during her eight years on the council.
"She was loved and respected by councillors from all parties and she'll be missed by us all.
"On a personal note, I'll never forget the encouragement, advice, help and support she always gave me.
"Many people in Dudley have lost a very good friend."
Mrs Roberts, who used to work at a primary school in Princes End, Tipton leaves behind one daughter and two granddaughters.
Her funeral will take place tomorrow (20) at 4.10pm at Gornal Wood Crematorium.
Councillor Roberts' family have requested family flowers only but friends and colleagues can make a donation to Mary Stevens Hospice which cared for her in her final days.
