Roma Laureen PalmerQUEEN 2010 - 2014
Queen Laureen did a great job as Queen and then handed over the crown and regalia to Queen Jane, previously Vice Queen in 2014. It was once said of Roma Laureen Palmer that she was a 'true Lady', this sums her up so well. Always elegant in her dress and gentle in her spirit, she held herself with composure and grace through the many seasons of life.
Born in South Africa, Roma Laureen grew up with her sisters in the sunshine of Africa. At the age of 18 years, the family moved to Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) and built a new life as part of the pioneering post-war generation, enjoying elegant dances and a social life that was to be envied. Here she met her husband and they moved to Beirut, quite a shock for a newly married young lady! But soon after the newlyweds felt the call to return to their cherished Rhodesia. And with this move came the expansion of their family. Laureen loved to travel and did so extensively with her parents. Once married she journeyed with her husband Nigel and the children, and in later years with friends. London, Paris, Cairo, New York, Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, and onwards across Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and Russia. A true Red Hat lady, she loved to experience new things, always wanting to see more and to try new things. She was an accomplished cake maker and decorator, she turned her hand to many crafts including sewing, watercolours and oils, Chinese lacquer, pottery, knitting, crochet, card making, cooking, dolls house production and more. She treasured spending time with friends over a cup of tea, playing tennis, eating out, going to shows and taking part in many varied activities. She was very social and kind with her words. She loved to dance and was a much sort after partner for a waltz, tango or quickstep. Her dancing shoes were always at the ready along with a beautiful array of dresses and accessories. In recent years she dressed to impress for social events including the Red Hat gatherings, creating many happy memories at parties and functions with dear Boudicca Babe chapter members that she made there. She slipped away peacefully at home with the family on Sunday 14th August 2022. Roma Laureen will be greatly missed by her family and friends. Gone too soon. As she was fond of saying, "It's all part of life's rich tapestry". Dignified, rare and beautiful to all who had the honour of knowing her. She leaves with us many happy memories and the enduring image of the gracefulness of a true Lady. Funeral Service A celebration of Roma Laureen's life was held at Colchester Crematorium on Tuesday 13th September 2022 |