THE funeral of a former Brierley Hill first lady is due to take place tomorrow (Wednesday February 5).

Jean Hill, wife of former chairman of the old Brierley Hill Urban District Council and Black Country historian - Stan Hill, died on January 13 after a short battle with cancer.

A funeral and celebration of her life is due to take place at Gornal Wood Crematorium at 12.20pm followed by a further gathering at Himley Hall.

As well as husband Stan - the 82-year-old, of Lawnwood Avenue, Wordsley, leaves two daughters Sheila and Mandy and grandsons Stuart and Scott.

Mrs Hill, who worked at a solicitor’s office in Oldbury in her youth, was consort to former civic head Mr Hill during his year as chairman from 1955 to 1956 – during which the couple, who were considered the youngest civic dignitaries in the country, met HRH The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh.

Mr Hill said his wife of 59 years had been a constant support during his time as Labour councillor for Quarry Bank and as editor of the Blackcountryman magazine.

He added: “Everything we did was together – over the years I’ve written all these words but she proof read every word I’ve ever written.”

Mourners are asked to wear casual, colourful clothing to the funeral which will be a humanist affair.

Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to Mary Stevens Hospice in Stourbridge via Farmer & Son Funeral Directors, 82 High Street, Wordsley, DY8 5SB.