The matriarch to a large extended family honoured the Romany traditions she married into with a horse-drawn funeral procession.

Sidmouth Herald: Jo Small with husband Jan.Jo Small with husband Jan. (Image: Archant)

County Durham-born Josephine Small, nee Pringle, moved to Sidmouth to be with husband Dennis, better known as Jan, who is from the town.

Josephine, better known as Jo, died on July 12 at the age of 83. Her funeral was held on Tuesday, August 1. Her daughter Gina Mallett said: “Jo was an esteemed woman and matriarch. Widowed aged only 41, she presided over a family of six children and around 50 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

“Keeping with convention, the cortege left from Jo’s home in Victoria Road, proceeded through the town and along the seafront, Jo’s favourite place, and along Station Road to Kennaway House, where the service was conducted.

“Of course, mourners following the horse and carriage on foot is not only a Romany tradition, but a regal one, too.

Sidmouth Herald: Jo SmallJo Small (Image: Archant)

“As a family, we wanted to show our love and respect for our mother by honouring her wishes for her last journey with dignity and pride.”