We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing earlier this week of Elsie Harris, wife of our President and former Chairman Tom.
Elsie passed away at the age of 92 and was previously a mainstay of both the Taunton Town boardroom and social club over a long time period. She is pictured with Tom receiving a framed painting of the Cygnet Health Care Stadium in 2011 to recognize the service both gave to the club which led to her being made a Life Member.
Matchday and Fixtures Secretary Martin Dongworth who knew Elsie for many years paid this tribute:
“It was with great sadness that I learned the other day that Elsie had passed away. Although I was aware she had not been well, it was nonetheless a great shock. It is the second tragedy to hit the family in a short space of time – back in September Elsie’s brother Doug Pike and wife Sylvia, who were club sponsors for many years, lost their son Duncan after a long battle with cancer.
Although Elsie was famously not a football fan, she was however connected with the game for most of her life. Some of you will remember Gordon Hucker, who was a supporter for many years and also served on the Supporters Club. Gordon was actually previously married to Elsie and following their divorce, Elsie married Tom who was also divorced.
Elsie and Tom shared a love of cricket and watched games both live and on television. It was however for her life in the Social Club that Elsie will be best remembered – as well as playing skittles for the Plumes in the Ladies Club League and being a very keen bingo player, Elsie also provided the food for most of the skittles and darts teams for many years, but this was only the start. She also catered for the football team as well as for many private functions and other events such as Christmas and New Year parties. I understand she was also catering for her neighbours in her 90s.
Elsie managed to secure help from family and friends when required but always provided a memorable meal or buffet whatever the occasion. She was even known to provide food for the Western League directors when Tom joined the management committee, and the meetings were held in Taunton. Elsie also accompanied Tom on many Western League conventions and Southern League weekends and there was never any shortage of people who wanted to talk to her.
Even though Elsie stopped going to the club a few years ago she is still fondly remembered, and I know will be sadly missed by many people.
Rest in peace Elsie.”
The club wish to express their deepest condolences to Tom and all family and friends.