Margot Godbold (née Pate) was born in Finchley, North London, on 22nd May 1931 to Haylock and May Pate.
Margot grew up in North London, but during the war she was evacuated to Rodmartin in Gloucestershire where she learned to pogo stick in glamourous surroundings. She came home before the war ended to be with her parents. She combined this North London verve and stamina with a love of home, family and community all her life.
After an early career break from nursing to raise her young family, Margot trained as a teacher. To no one's great surprise her success was immediate, quickly rising to deputy head, then headmistress. Brilliant with young children, fearsomely organised and visionary in her teaching, she was the headmistress and teacher every parent would want for their child.
These leadership skills were also evident in her social life, while working, and in retirement with Maurice. The bridge club, Am Dram, WI, village fete and horticultural show (a recent chutney champion) were all very much part of Margot's life in Walberswick, where she made many friends and contributed hugely to the local community. She loved it all.
More than anything, Margot will be remembered as a loving wife to Maurice, to whom she was married for 60 years, a loving mother to Claire and Giles, grandmother to seven and, latterly to her huge delight, as a great grandmother. Her presence was always felt in every room and will continue to be by all she loved and who loved her.
A memorial service will be held in the church later this year when restrictions allow.
Giles Godbold and Claire Arnold