Sheila Hoole 1913 - 2022
It is with much sadness that we announce the death of Sheila on Wednesday 16 February 2022, at the age of 108.

Mrs Hoole, was almost certainly the last surviving widow of anyone who served in the First World War and at the time of her death was the 49th oldest living person in the UK.

Both Sheila's sons from her marriage to Gilbert were also at Tonbridge, Peter (WH 58-63) and Richard Hoole (WH 65-70). They have kindly sent in a recent photo of Sheila on her 108th birthday holding a card from HM The Queen:

Richard Hoole informs us how HM The Queen contacts you on your centenary: "On one’s 100th Birthday the Palace send a card. On one’s 105th Birthday the Palace again sends a card and thereafter every year.

Each card comes in a special envelope with precise instructions to deliver the card on the exact birthday. These instructions are directed to the local Post Office, who are required to report back to the Palace by 0930 hrs on the specified day that the delivery has been made.

Each year the Queen’s picture on the outside of the card is different. A few weeks before the birthday an official from the Department for Works and Pensions visits to ascertain that the recipient is alive and where they are living".

During her time at Tonbridge, Sheila made an impact on the lives of hundreds of boys through her role in the House.

In an article about the celebrations of Sheila's 108th birthday, Peter and Richard, shared how Sheila is faring, “she has only been in a care home (in Etchingham) for the last two years, she finds it very comfortable. Considering her age her mind is pretty good and she can still walk. Astonishing really!” 

Sheila will be missed by many generations of the Tonbridge Community. Obituary to follow

A Service of Celebration will be held for Sheila's life on Wednesday March 9th at 3.15pm at Kent and Sussex Crematorium. Family flowers only, donations to The Royal British Legion via www.justgiving.com/fundraising/SheilaHoole

Ref: Oldest People in Britain (oldestinbritain.nfshost.com)

If you would like to share your memories of Mrs Hoole, please email your contributions to OTS@tonbridge-school.org