Joyce Thomas MBE DL

1931 ~ 2023

We were all saddened to hear the news about the death of Mrs Joyce Thomas MBS DL,
the longest serving governor at Walford Nursery & Primary School and affectionately known as ‘The Queen of Walford’ by many pupils and staff, past and present. 

Joyce was a much-loved member of the community of Ross-on-Wye and her sterling work in setting up several local groups is just one of her legacies to the town. 

Serving as the first lady mayor in the 1970s, she established a
park and playground at the Deanhill site and set up the successful
Ross-on-Wye Pre-School Playgroup, of which she remained its Life President.

Passionate about helping young people, Joyce devoted much of her time
in support of local schools, serving as Chair of Governors at both John Kyrle High School
and Walford Nursery & Primary School for many years.

 As trustee of the Minett and Skyrme Trust and Walford’s Pashley Trust,
Joyce continued to actively support the lives of children and young people in Ross.

As patron of Walford Nursery & Primary School, her positive influence,
dedication and contribution to our school was immeasurable. 

Joyce was incredibly popular, well respected and will be very sadly missed by all.