TRIBUTES have been paid to a “wonderful mother” and “thoroughly devoted grandmother” who died after a fall while horse riding near Southam.
Liz Jackson was riding along a country lane between Fenny Compton and Farnborough on Thursday January 7 when she fell.
Emergency services arrived and life support was carried out but she died with Simon Jackson – her husband of 39 years – by her side.
The life-long horse rider, keen bridge player, gardener and golfer attended school in Berkshire.
After moving to Warwickshire, where she met and married Mr Jackson, she used her entrepreneurial skills to create Lizzie’s Basket – a company catering for directors’ lunches and other events.
A son, Henry and daughter, Kizzy, followed and the family spent many happy holidays in Cornwall together.
Paying tribute, daughter Kizzy said: “She was first and foremost a dedicated wife who encouraged everyone to find the positive in any negative situation.
“She was a wonderful mother and a thoroughly devoted grandmother to Henry’s children, Archie and Oscar. She was always there for us and went to great lengths to support the wider family.
“She would never let a telephone ring out and her door was always open for anyone.
Mrs Jackson, 65, was a stalwart supporter of her husband, canvassing enthusiastically when he stood to become a district councillor for the Burton Dassett ward – where he served for 11 years and more recently, as his consort during his term as Stratford District Council chairman from 2014 to 2015.
“She attended every function and had the most wonderful ability to engage with everyone.
“They rode together almost every day, and The Slade, where the accident took place, was one of their favourite rides,” said Kizzy.
“Mum was active in the community and regularly volunteered for Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) in Stratford and more recently, campaigned to raise funds for the restoration of the Beauchamp Chapel at St Mary’s Church, Warwick.
“Mum was extremely upbeat, always looking on the sunny side of life and would never give up when faced with a challenge. “Everyone is extremely shocked and she will be greatly missed by family and friends.”
A service of thanksgiving and celebration will be held at St Mary’s Church in Warwick on Friday, January 22 at 2.30pm.
No flowers are requested but donations are welcome via Humphris on 01295 265464.
