‘Marion always found a way to help’

Southwark residents have paid tribute to a community worker who died suddenly in April 2019 at the age of 68, writes Regina Motalib.

Marion Marples, who was much loved by all the community groups she supported, also had a garden named after her.

Gambia Street Garden in Southwark was renamed Marion’s Way at an opening ceremony on Sunday, September 25.

The event was attended by her family, well-wishers and dignitaries including the The Very Revd, Andrew Nunn, Dean of Southwark and the Deputy Mayor of Southwark, Councillor Sunil Chopra.

Sue Ahmet, 61, of Rotherham Way remembered Marion fondly. She said: “I knew Marion for many years. We worked together, looking after what is now Marion’s Way.

“She was such a selfless person who did so much for her neighbours. I really loved the quiet way in which she went about doing good things for others without seeking credit. Marion was a total gem. I miss her.”

Among the many good deeds Marion did was a weekly afternoon tea she put on for the residents of Lucy Brown House in Park Street, London Bridge.

Rose Nash, 69, is a resident of Lucy Brown and described Marion as “irreplaceable” She said: “We looked forward to the weekly tea afternoons that Marion organised with the help of volunteers from Southwark Cathedral and Living Bankside.

“She also organised an annual Christmas Carol service which included the Cathedral School Choir. Marion cared about the residents here and her presence is still missed. She is irreplaceable.”

Speaking at the opening of Marion’s Way, her husband Leigh Hatts said: “Marion would never have imagined such a tribute for herself.

“The ceremony brought together many strands of her life and a quiet demonstration of affection from friends and colleagues in the Bankside and SE1 community.”

Main Pic: From left, Marion Marples son James Hatts, Deputy Mayor Cllr Sunil Chopra, Marion’s husband, Leigh Hatts and The Very Revd, Andrew Nunn, Dean of Southwark