Tributes to ‘lovely person’ Sheelagh after sudden death
'A lovely person': Sheelagh Pollentine, who died on Monday, is pictured on holiday in France. - Credit: Archant
THE grieving husband of a popular Sidmouth woman who died suddenly and unexpectedly this week has led loving tributes to her – saying ‘she was just a joy’.
Town councillor Simon Pollentine described his wife, Sheelagh, 55, as a ‘lovely person’ who always tried to help others.
Sheelagh had been unwell with what was thought to be a viral infection. She was visited by a doctor last Monday and it was hoped she was on the road to recovery, but Simon found her dead at their home when he checked up on her later that afternoon.
The couple, of Arcot Road, wed 17 years ago when Simon, 59, was chairman of the town council and she always supported him in his civic duties.
Solicitor Sheelagh, who worked for Devon County Council, was a valued member of the Sidmouth in Bloom committee, played a part in various town clubs and enjoyed an active life in the town.
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“She was a lovely person and was just a joy,” said Simon.
“The time we had together was really great. She enjoyed all sorts of things in life to the full, art, theatre, music and watching sport.”
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Simon fondly remembered Sheelagh once handing out the awards at a Sidmouth in Bloom event in 1997 and ending up in every one of 14 photos in a spread in the Herald – something he thinks must be a record.
Sheelagh’s funeral will take place next Friday, May 10, at 3.15pm at East Devon Crematorium.
“Anyone who knew her is quite welcome to come,” said Simon.
Sheelagh was a valued member of the re-formed Sidmouth in Bloom committee, set up in early 2012, and worked on liaising with businesses and gaining sponsorship.
Chairman Lynette Talbot, who became close friends with her, said: “She was a very strong supporter and very important member of our committee and worked really hard for us. We’re going to find it hard to replace her.
“It is just a shock and unexpected. She was in the prime of her life and had a lot to live for.”
