In Memoriam- Alva Martin (née Millers)
March 1932 – November 2020
We are deeply saddened to report the recent passing of Alva Martin, a long time resident and teacher in Chearsley, on November 3rd.
Alva was born in Cuddington where she grew up on Holymans Farm with five siblings. She had a great love of the countryside, the wild birds, and animals. Alva was very fond of her nephews and nieces, taking them for long walks through the fields. They found her great fun, and this led onto teacher training.
Alva taught at a nursery in Aylesbury before taking a teaching job at Chearsley Village School, which she loved, and remained there until she retired. She was very popular with the children and parents alike, and eventually taught some of the children of her early pupils. Great at craft work and making costumes with the children, Chearsley Village School was a happy place. Alva is fondly remembered by many former pupils for bringing fun and imagination to their learning experiences.
Peter Martin came to the school as headteacher in 1959. A photo of the school children, together with Peter and Alva, in that same year is shown below. Peter and Alva had similar views on teaching, enjoying outdoor activities, not just sitting behind desks, and having fun with the children while they learnt. Alva and Peter married in 1965 and made their home in Chearsley in 1979. They remained in Bernards Close, Chearsley until Alva needed nursing care two years ago, and they both retired to Hulcott Nursing Home.
The beautiful portrait of Alva shown above was created by Peter in 1960.
As many in our community will testify, despite many health difficulties in recent years, Alva never lost her wit and sparkle and our sincere condolences go to Peter and all of the family at this very sad time.
The ‘Service of Thanksgiving’ for Alva’s life will take place next Wednesday (18th November) but, in the line with current restrictions, it will be a private occasion and just include a small number in the congregation, comprising family members and a few close friends.
The service will commence at St Nicholas Church at 2pm on the 18th. However, at around 1.30, the hearse bearing her coffin will make its way to the service and, within the guidelines for ‘social distancing’, you are very welcome to bid farewell to Alva on her final journey through the village.
Alva Martin (1932-2020)
