R.I.P. Rose Swann
Beloved Wife of Furse and Dear Friend to all Hardyans
We sadly announce that Rose Swann passed away peacefully on Tuesday 22nd November 2022. A full obituary for Rose from the Thomas Hardy Society will appear in the Spring Journal. In the meantime, a few personal memories together with illustrative photographs are offered to readers of the THS website.
We first met Rose and Furse Swann when we took over the tenancy of Max Gate in 1994. Together with Jim and Helen Gibson they extended the warmest welcome to Dorchester and the Thomas Hardy Society. This was a friendship which deepened, with generous hospitality and a shared love of literature, life and commitment to the work of Thomas Hardy and the Hardy Society. Many conference attendees became friends over the years and all were welcomed to the parties at Yoah Cottage. Rose served for many years on the Council of Management and, during her time supervising catering, we were treated to excellent celebratory meals with flowers and candles - a special Rose touch. Together with Furse, she organised delightful events and publicity which encouraged membership and participation.
Yoah Cottage developed into a haven of creativity and village life. Her sculptures are evidence of Roses artistic creativity – charming, delightful and light-hearted - enjoyed by so many of us.
Garden of Eden by Rose Swann
Furse and Rose wholeheartedly embraced the concept of the Dorchester Community Play - appearing in their productions and fundraising in support of a valued project; in fact Rose appeared in all of the productions.
Rose, adored by Furse and your wonderful family - sons, grandchildren, great grandchildren and your many friends - you leave the happiest of memories, with the saddest of feelings at our loss of a warm, funny and very special lady.
Marilyn Leah - 9th December 2022
Starts 09:00 until 18:00
Starts 13:00
Starts 14:00 until 16:30
Starts 18:00 until 19:00