Ann Widdecombe Remembrance memorial
We are saddened to learn of the passing of the Rt Hon Ann Widdecombe, Honorary Freeman of the Borough of Maidstone since 2007. For more than two decades, Ann was a passionate advocate for Maidstone and its communities. Her commitment to public service, fierce dedication to her constituents and unmistakable presence in public life left a lasting mark on our borough. Council Leader Cllr Stuart Jeffery said: “Ann was a formidable parliamentarian, a dedicated constituency MP and a strong champion for Maidstone. The affection she held for the borough was clear throughout her years of service.
Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to share their thoughts and pay tribute to Ann. We know this is a deeply upsetting case that has had a profound impact on our community, and our thoughts remain with Ann’s family, friends and all those affected.
As criminal proceedings are now live and an individual has been charged in connection with Ann’s murder, we have taken the decision to close the book of condolence. This is to help protect the integrity of the legal process and ensure a fair trial can take place. Thank you for your understanding and for continuing to show respect and compassion during this difficult time.
Rest in peace AnneTaken too early and will be sadly missed I hope your murderer rots in prison. Sleep tight xxx
Remembered by: Grant howard
Dear Anne it is so cruel what has happened to you. Please RIP. You will be sorely missed x
Remembered by: Janet Borawiak
Outspoken, forthright, brilliant, got things done. Best MP that Maidstone has ever had.Always had time for everyone, I met her a few times, a wonderful lady. RIP
Remembered by: Cornish Alan
Feisty, fun and fabulous, a proper pocket rocket. The best prime minister we never had. RIP 🩵
Remembered by: Del Duffy
R.I.P. lovely lady. I'll always be grateful the way you helped me to get the house I'm in now 37 years agI am shocked to the core how someone could do this to an elderly lady. May you have eternal rest 🌹
Remembered by: Joyce Walker
A remarkable woman. A great loss to the country.Thank you Ann.
Remembered by: Dawn Bardoe
You touched our hearts in so many ways.Your kindness ..your willingness to share honestly and be YOU. Thank you.May you now rest in Gods loving arms..trully free.
Remembered by: Miv
A politician of a bygone era, Ann encompassed everything that someone who gives their life to public service should- courage of her convictions, honesty, integrity and intelligence with a sprinkling of self-deprecating humour. I may not have always agreed with her but her ability to stay true to her own moral compass, her faith and her strength of character means that she will live on in spirit and should be held up as an example to many of those career politicians who currently ‘serve’ the people. This isn’t how such an amazing life should have ended. Thank you for all you did and my condolences go to those friends and family who are left behind.
Remembered by: Lizzie Humphreys
Life can be so cruel. A lady who stood by her beliefs and convictions and always seemed to have a smile. Whether you agreed or not she deserved so much better... Rest in eternal peace Ann 🙏❤️
Remembered by: Anne Marie Francis
Such sad news. An inspiring woman who didn't deserve such a tragedy. RIP
Remembered by: Greg
Ann you came to my primary school 23 years ago, when I was about 10 years old. I'm guessing when you was elected as my local MP of Maidstone! I remember that day still and look back fondly of the figure you was in politics. A powerhouse of a lady and always stuck to your guns. But also showing the kinder and fun times including on our TV's. Thank you Ann. God bless and you will never be forgotten
Remembered by: Adam Smith
Fly high and free Ann, I hope you’re dancing in the clouds. A woman who was never afraid to speak her mind. Rest peacefully always.
Remembered by: Sharon Shepherd
Plant a tree or two in remembrance o f Ann. RIP.
Remembered by: Noel Latham
RIP Anne, taken too soon ❤️
Remembered by: Gemma
Fierce, headstrong and unwavering. Equally kind, warm and devoted. It was an honour and a privilege to have met you, even briefly as a child. May you find eternal peace in the next life.
Remembered by: JW & Family
You were one feisty lady and didn't care who you upset good on you. You will be sorely missed, rest in peace xx
Remembered by: Janet Reynolds
Rest in peace ann,You were a good MP when my grandad needed a bit of help and you stepped up.Again rest in peace.
Remembered by: Clive.
A sad loss. A decent lady from start to finish. RIP
Remembered by: David Kingsman
RIP ♥️
Remembered by: Lauren Forrestal
In thanksgiving for your public service, commitment to your Constituency as an MP, and desire to make a difference to people’s lives. May you rest in God’s peace and rise in his glory.
Remembered by: Rachel Kaunhoven
So sad, RIP Ann. An extraordinary lady with a kind heart, a wicked sense of humour and one that truly supported her constituents. Ann was a great support for me and my girls when we were victims of domestic abuse. She always communicated with me and really made a difference at a very challenging time in our lives. One very unique, special lady x
Remembered by: Nikki Ward
Such a great lady always will be remembered in what she believed in a great loss to our country rest in peace my fair lady
Remembered by: David Tipton
RIP Ann , it was a pleasure to have met you on few occassions, you had a formidable presence , a fantastic sense of humour, a genuine lovely lady. So sad you left in such tragic circumstances.
Remembered by: Michelle Rolfe
You were an amazing lady , who said it how you saw it. You were very helpful & kind when we met with you in the late 80s .Rest in peace Ann.
Remembered by: Aileen & Ian Tattersall
The world will be a sadder place for the loss of this amazing lady. Never frightened to speak her mind. Such an admirable quality. May you rest in peace Ann.
Remembered by: Elaine
God bless you darling AnnI am so sorry that you went to heaven earlier than you should have done. Rest well and thank you for being the most amazing human. We all will miss you so much and justice will be served x
Remembered by: Maria Seymour
Such a lovely lady, did so much for maidstone. She also opened the Asda Living Store where I work back in 2009. R.I.P Ann ❤️
Remembered by: Lesley Walters
I so admired your grit and determination to say it how it was, no softly, softly touch, we need more of people like you dear lady, to make this country great again. God Bless
Remembered by: Jan
Anne Widdecombe embodied a vibrant spirit and maintained her honor until the very end. Navigating the complexities of Christianity, politics, and truth was undoubtedly challenging, yet she approached it with unwavering conviction and strength, making her a formidable presence. Her character will be profoundly missed. I find it hard to accept her passing; it feels unreal. I wish her life hadn’t ended this way. I believe she would have remained steadfast on her path to the very end. God bless you, Anne; may your legacy continue to inspire. Thank you for being genuine and leaving an impact on everyone you encountered. R.I.P
Remembered by: Christine Birch
One can only be deeply touched by the outpouring of love for Ann on these messages. And it is almost impossible to add anymore. Ann, you were and always will be one in a million. We love and miss you and it was the greatest privilege to know and serve you. Thank you for being you. R.I.P. dearest Ann xxx
Remembered by: Alan and Brenda
A wonderful woman, a true lion hearted soul. The world needs more Anns. Travel well fair lady.. 🙏🙏
Remembered by: Alison Lawlor
Such a lovely Lady I met her once so genuine RIP
Remembered by: Dawn Carpenter
Ann was one of the very few honest politicians who actually had conviction, and DEFINITELY did not deserve to have her life cut short last Wednesday. Like John Lennon you knew she meant what she said and whether you agreed with her or not you had to respect her.
Remembered by: JOHN JOHNSON
Rest in piece lovely lady 🙏 so sorry your worthwhile life ended this way 😥
Remembered by: Kaz
I did my work experience with Ann when she was an MP back in the early 2000s. She was the loveliest lady, and she invited my mum and I up to parliament to sit in the House of Commons. It was a truly unforgettable experience. It’s very sad to hear of Ann’s passing. Sending love to her family as this difficult time.
Remembered by: Carly Knight
Dear Ann rest in peace x
Remembered by: Patricia Martin
Ann You spoke up when you needed to and didn’t back down.What a terrible fate has befallen youR.I.P Ann
Remembered by: Rose Lovell
Feisty straight talking and took no nonsense, A brave lady indeed RIP Anne you deserved moreMay you find eternal peace
Remembered by: Pia Whitaker
R I P. Ann. Thank you for your service
Remembered by: DAVID Light
Loved that you held strong beliefs & spoke your mind. Hope you are free now. Xx
Remembered by: Charlie
"There are no words for this unimaginable tragedy" , rest in peace Ann , a local lady from my home town. Condolences to your family and friends
Remembered by: Miss. Paula Smy
met her at a cat sanctuary many years ago in Maidstone that she was a patron of. very polite, do not agree with her politics but what you see in the media does not show the true person, rip
Remembered by: Michael How
Our deepest sympathy and condolences to Ann's family and friends. We were never lucky enough to know or meet Ann but held her in the highest regard. We loved Ann's commitment to her beliefs, to stand up for what was right and to speak her mind freely. There will never be another Ann. We were truly shocked to hear of Ann's passing. May Ann rest in eternal peace.
Remembered by: The Vaughan family
So Sorry you were taken too soon and in such a brutal way in your own home where you should have been safe, you were outspoken and not everyone agreed with your views but I loved listening and watching you on tv especially on Strictly! Rest in peace Ann I hope your dancing better than when you were on the show lol xx
Remembered by: Linda
A terrible thing to happen too a lovely lady and a great politician may you rest in peace lovely lady thoughts with all your family god bless ya xx
Remembered by: Ben dawn benger
You were a lovely lady. You helped my son and daughter-in-law find a home. You were very kind to them.
Remembered by: Diane
She was a strong advocate for what is right, she will be truly missed
Remembered by: Phil
Truly a remarkable lady taken in an horrendous way. RIP 🌹🌹
Remembered by: Julie
Your hard work & dedication to the folk of Maidstone & the Weald will not be forgotten. You were forthright but you did not deserve the end fate dealt you. Rest In Peace
Remembered by: Lyn H
You were such a lovely lady always went above and beyond and will be sadly missed .RIP prays to your family.
Remembered by: Lisa and Paul Downham
Rest in peace Ann, you will never be forgotten.
Remembered by: Jenny Karling
Such a great politician which is rare these days. I had total respect for Anne. RIP
Remembered by: Dave Sears
Thanks for contributing to Maidstone when Maidstone was and had things to be proud of
Remembered by: Daniel Lawrence-Thomas
I’m truly gutted by the news of your passing, I’m sure someone such as yourself would be forgiving that’s what made you stand out much much more than other politicians. RIPWiddy you will be missed ! Eternal rest and peace lotsy love ❤️
Remembered by: Shaune Hook
Ann, you were and always will be an inspiration to so many people. There will never be anyone as kind, considerate, caring, funny and had a great sense of humour and game for anything as you. We thought of you as a wonderful and well loved lady who spoke up from her heart about what she believed in whether others thought it was right or wrong.Forever in our hearts, thoughts and prayers, God Bless and may you rest in peace x
Remembered by: Dawn Helmore
Such a shame you did so much during your latter years. RIP Ann.
Remembered by: Colin Slender
Thank you all your selfless work. RIP Ann you deserve it.
Remembered by: Grant Blackman
R.I.P Anne you should have been made prime minister
Remembered by: Wendy
Such a great loss to politics, Ann you were a truly inspirational lady, you didn't mince your words and believed in freedom of speech. May you rest in eternal piece, our loss is heavens gain.
Remembered by: Donna Sales
You was the only mp for prisons to visit every prison in England . You stood up for what you believed in & stuck to your guns . Ann you will be miss by so many may you rest in peace
Remembered by: Julie Baker
I honour you for standing on your principles and faith. You never compromised yourself, nor what you believed in and for that I have the utmost respect for you. Your life was taken in the most violent way, but your memory and legacy will continue to stand, even though you are gone. Thank you, for all you have done for the people, your people. Now rest in peace Ann.
Remembered by: Dr Rene Uys
My thoughts are with your family and Friends . You helped my mum when she was a life you would go out of your way to help anyone. You dont deserve what has happened to you and I hope you and your family get the justice you deserve RIP Anne
Remembered by: Rose
Didn't always agree with her, but admired her tenacity and honesty. Bless her kind soul.
Remembered by: Kay Sanderson
I admired Ann when she was my PM for many years. I wrote to her once in relation to a family court matter and she added a hand written comment on the official reply. She was incredibly supportive and empathetic. RIP Ann.
Remembered by: Avis Brett
I never knew you, but i knew of you. When i heard your name i remembered your voice and face calling a spade a spade. Such a strong empowering woman. I may not have shared all of your views but i liked you. You were real, and real is hard to come by. Its tragic you have been taken in such a horrific way. And im sure you still being here would have contributed so much more for us all. But i wish you the rest and peace you so wholey deserve. And come whisper in my ear and let me know that dogs and cats do wait for us in heaven. Because i am sure you have already earned the name mad cat lady up there. Queen of the cats. Rest in Peace ❤️
Remembered by: Tina Price
Your lifes work and your fate have reached as far as Sweden. Go now, and have your well earned rest in the merciful embrace of our lord. You will be missed.
Remembered by: Per Wilhelm Eriksson
Rest in peace, Ann. You do not deserve to have left us in this way. My thoughts are with your friends and family.
Remembered by: Lynda
So sad to hear of the death of Ann Widdecombe. She was a strong advocate for her constituents over many years in Maidstone.
Remembered by: Teresa Shea
She did so much for so many people, without a fanfare, just quietly and humbly behind the scenes.She truly cared about people and worked tirelessly for her constituents. Her no nonsense and honest approach was refreshing. Her Christian convictions meant she did not compromise, even if it made her unpopular with some. My condolences to her family and friends - she was a unique and inspirational lady - my thoughts are with you as you navigate the weeks and months ahead and my prayer for you is that you will know Gods peace and comfort at this tragic time.
Remembered by: Suzanne Pennie
Such a dreadful way to end your wonderful life.You should have been safe in your home to enjoy your retirement in peace.I sincerely hope those responsible are brought to justice swiftly.Rest in peace.
Remembered by: Sandra Parsons
Rest in eternal peace such a lovely lady. Should have been prime minister she would have put GB back on the map. Xx
Remembered by: Ian & Lorraine Stapley
Rest in peace Ann
Remembered by: Lesley
The sky has gained another star. May you dance your way around the skies. Sadly taken too soon. Thank you for all you did for Maidstone and Kent and for entertaining us too, especially on the dance floor.You will be fondly remembered. Sleep tight dear lady.
Remembered by: Jade and family.
Rest in peace Ann a life brutally taken 🌹
Remembered by: Val 🥲
The best prime minister this country didn’t have Rest in perfect peace Ann Widdecombe ♥️
Remembered by: Sarah White
RIP Anne, thank you for all your help over the years you were my MP. You will be sadly missed by so many.people.
Remembered by: Erika Lock
RIP you have been a great servant to us and also given me some giggles. sadly missed
Remembered by: Julie marsh
Rest safely inthe Lord's arms. Rest in peace, and rise in glory. Amen
Remembered by: Sandra
Dear AnnWhen you were our MP and a very busy ladyyou came to our house and shared a meal with us and took the time to talk to our church house group to share what it was like to be a Christian in parliament. You were really wonderful and so thoughtful. It was a very special evening. We want to Thankyou for all you did as our amazing MP. We know you are safe with Jesus now but we are so sad about how you had to suffer.God bless you Ann 🙏🏻🙏🏻
Remembered by: Linda and Jeff Thatcher
Such a crawl world, thank you for all you did for Maidstone. Your will be etched in history and remain in our hearts forever. RIP Ann
Remembered by: Lucy
We have lost an amazing lady.Always true to her beliefs, always kind to those who held different opinions to herself and happy to discuss & debate.We will miss you Ann and the world will be a sadder place without you.R.I.P 💔🌹
Remembered by: Carol & Nigel Sparks
I hope you are free now Ann, with all that you worshiped all of your life. Rest peacefully, you were fabulous 🕊
Remembered by: Gina
Rest in Peace. ❤️
Remembered by: Lesley Angel
I hope you are truly free now Ann, with all that you worshiped all of your life. Rest peacefully. God bless xxx
Remembered by: Gina
May you rest in peace, safe in the knowledge that you will never be forgotten, for all the right reasons.
Remembered by: Lesley Ford
Ann helped our family when we had a problem with our Dads Power of Attorney and we got the result that we wanted. She worked tirelessly for her constituents. I also remember her visiting East Farleigh Playgroup when I worked there to introduce herself to us. She was a friendly and approachable lady and nothing was too much trouble. She had her faith and I hope she rests in peace.
Remembered by: Jacqueline Baker
You’re now in the arms of your Lord and reunited with your beloved mother, father and brother. God Bless. RIP Ann, you’ll be sorely missed by many! 🙏
Remembered by: Patricia Golding
You said what others were scared to say. You spoke the truth and I wish there were more like you. God bless you
Remembered by: Asher Meekins
Our thoughts of with your family and friends xxx Thank- you for all you did xx
Remembered by: Jo Older
God bless you Ann. Thank you for being Firm but Fair in all that you did and believed . Thank you for helping others in need regardless of backgrounds. Thank you for being a kind soul, now rest with your lord.🙏🙏 Amen.🙏🙏
Remembered by: Sharon Somers
One of a kind, not many left like you, RIP Ann
Remembered by: Jane perry
Rest in peace Ann. My mum Marion (a former Mayor of Maidstone) was very much like you. 🩷
Remembered by: Stacey
I met Ann once and she seemed a genuinely, kind and down to earth person RIP
Remembered by: Alison
Thank You Ann for being the best MP an area could have. Also a great person willing to get involved in lots of thing's. The World will be a sadder place without you. xx
Remembered by: Amanda
May you rest in peace Ann, you will be missed😪 🙏 💔
Remembered by: DONNA
Rest In Peace, Ann, Lovely lady.
Remembered by: JANE NEAL
Will be sorely missed, you were an inspiration. I admired you greatly for your beliefs and your honesty. This country has lost a wonderful person, our loss is heavens gain.
Remembered by: Denise Clarke
Best MP Maidstone ever had and she lived local. RIP Ann.
Remembered by: Joseph Morris
One of the gooduns, if only we had more caring politicians of her calibre, RIP Anne.
Remembered by: James Wall
Ann, you were, and always will be, an icon. A beacon of truth and decency; British politics will forever be poorer for having lost you. Rest in peace.
Remembered by: Neil C
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