Kentish Gazette Canterbury & District
Family stunned as thousands raised for mum’s funeral
Community stalwart battled breast cancer
Thousands of pounds have been raised for the funeral of a “phenomenal” mum-of-four who had been battling breast cancer. Louise Browne died on the morning of January 7, aged 52. Her friend Layla Fielder said: “Although she hated being called strong and a fighter, she really was both of those things right to the end. Anyone who knew her will be aware of what a phenomenal woman she was.” Louise, who lived in Wincheap, first fought breast cancer a decade ago.
“She went through a lot of treatment and got the all clear, but was diagnosed with secondary cancer just under eight years later,” explained Layla. “So it’s been the last four or five years.
“She’s gone through lots of different treatments - chemotherapy, radiotherapy. In the last few months it really took hold.” Louise formerly worked at Clarks shoe shop in Canterbury and was well-known in the city, helping to run Scouts jumble sales and playing an active role on Wincheap School’s PTA. “She was really involved in the community,” said Layla. “She had a massive network of friends. She was incredibly thoughtful and kind - she was fierce, loyal and would do anything for her friends and family. “She lived her life to the full to make sure her children will have lasting memories of an amazing mum, who loved them with all of her heart.” Louise leaves behind her four children - Nathan, Adam, Romany and Obi.
“They have been brilliant, particularly pulling together over the last couple of months when Louise became very ill,” said Layla.
“I know how proud she was of all of them and how they have supported her and each other. “They are quite inspirational, as was their lovely mum.” Louise had begun paying into a funeral fund, but received no payout as it was started less than a year before her death. Hoping to raise £500 towards the funeral costs to “make this sad time a little easier for her loved ones”, Layla launched a fundraising page. But she and Louise’s family have been left overwhelmed as donations of almost £4,000 have flooded in. The money will cover the funeral, which is being held at Barham Crematorium at 10am tomorrow (Friday), and a celebration of Louise’s life from 12.30pm at the Worthgate Scout Hut in Wincheap. Any remaining funds will be split equally between Louise’s children.