Tributes paid to ‘gentle and generous’ Councillor

Tributes have been paid to a ‘kind, gentle and generous’ former Councillor who has passed away.

Ann Hood served as Chairman of South Derbyshire District Council in 2008/09 and 2013/14 and took great pride in championing local people and groups.

The 75-year-old passed away peacefully at Cedar Tree Care Home in Derby on Sunday, October 15.

Those who knew her have spoken of her selflessness and how she always put the needs of others first.

Cllr Bob Wheeler, Leader of the District Council, said:

“We all have very fond memories of Ann. She was kind, gentle and generous, always thinking of others rather than herself.

“There was not a hint of malice in her.

“I never heard her speak ill of anyone nor anyone else speak ill of her. The loss of Ann will be deeply felt by friends and colleagues far beyond South Derbyshire.”

Ann was born in Northallerton, North Yorkshire. She and her husband Frank moved around Great Britain with their respective jobs before settling in South Derbyshire in 1977.

The former nursery nurse represented Willington and Findern on the District Council from 2003 to 2015.

Cllr Kevin Richards, Leader of the opposition group at the Council, said:

“Ann was a very gentle and kind lady and was very passionate about all of her duties. It was a privilege to have worked with her over the years.”

Frank McArdle, Chief Executive of the Council, said:

“Ann was a model Councillor and a considerate and compassionate person. A sad loss.”

Ann’s funeral service will be held from 2.15pm on Tuesday, November 7 at All Saint's Church, Findern, followed by committal at Bretby Crematorium.

26 October 2017