St. James’ Church, Manorbier, was full to overflowing for the recent funeral of Mrs. Joyce Mary Kidney, of The Paddocks, Pembroke Dock, and formerly of Jameston.

The huge attendance was testimony to how much Joyce was loved within the community, with friends and family travelling from far and wide to pay their last respects to a true local character.

As reported previously, Joyce died suddenly, but peacefully, at Withybush Hospital, Haverfordwest, after a short illness which she fought with great courage and dignity. She was aged 79.

Although most recently living in Pembroke Dock, Joyce was a native of Jameston, where she spent her childhood and most of her adult life.

Indeed, Jameston was home; she loved the parish and was active in fundraising for the church and Jameston Fair, and was instrumental in the successful twinning between Manorbier and Vernou in France, which continues to thrive to this day.

In her working life, Joyce was initially employed as a teaching assistant at Manorbier School, but will be best remembered for the many years she spent as advertising manager with the Tenby Observer, during which time she built up a great rapport with her customers throughout the county, many of whom became lifelong friends.

Among her many and varied interests were playing bridge at Penally and Lydstep, gardening, walking and swimming. Indeed, Joyce loved the beach at Manorbier and she would swim there every morning between the months of May and September.

A larger than life character with an infectious personality, Joyce was also a woman of great style and taste. She loved fashion and would always be impeccably turned out wherever she went.

But undoubtedly her greatest love was her family. She never tired of spending time with her 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and was so proud of the achievements of all her family.

Predeceased by her husband Joseph Kidney, family left to mourn are Peter and Jane, Andrew and Lesley, Phillip and Marcia (sons and daughters-in-law), her 11 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, and partner Dennis.

Officiating at the funeral service at Manorbier Church was the Rev. Alex Grace, while son Phillip gave a moving eulogy and granddaughter Eve read a poignant poem ‘Nannie Joyce - our special Nannie’, both receiving spontaneous and prolonged applause from an emotional congregation.

Bearers were Craig Kidney, Tom Kidney, Matthew Kidney, Max Kidney, Sasha Dicks and Joe Kidney.

Flowers were from Sandyhill Nurseries and cremation followed at Parc Gwyn Crematorium, Narberth.

There were family flowers only, but if desired, donations in lieu may be made for Ward 10, Withybush Hospital, c/o the funeral directors, John Roberts and Son, 51 Bush Street, Pembroke Dock.