It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Barbara Pepper, former houseparent of Netherton House at Rydal School.

Barbara, married to John Pepper, who taught French and German at Rydal, left an indelible mark on our community.

Barbara and John’s story began in Cambridge, where they first met. John attended Emmanuel College while Barbara was at Girton College. Together, they raised three daughters: Jane, Rachel, and Allison.

Moving to Colwyn Bay, the couple became houseparents of Netherton, creating a nurturing and supportive environment for countless pupils over the years.

Barbara’s life was rich with contributions beyond her role at the school. Her father, Victor Donald Siddons, served heroically in both World Wars and had the distinction of flying T.E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, on several occasions. Barbara’s own legacy includes her long-term involvement with the Colwyn Choral Society, Amnesty International, and over two decades of dedication to the Fair Trade movement.

For more information, please see the following BBC News article, available by clicking here.

To honour Barbara’s memory, a service of thanksgiving will be held on Thursday 27 June 2024. Following a private committal, all are invited to attend the service at 14:15 at Old Colwyn Methodist Church, Wynn Avenue, Old Colwyn, LL29 9RF. The service will be followed by refreshments in the Church Hall. In lieu of flowers, donations in Barbara’s memory may be made to either Christian Aid or Water Aid.

If you wish to pay your respects and attend the service, please contact us at alumni@rydalpenrhos.com to confirm your attendance. This will allow us to inform the family, which will in turn assist the funeral directors and caterers.

Barbara Pepper will be deeply missed, but her legacy will live on. On behalf of the entire Rydal Penrhos community, we offer our deepest condolences to her family, friends and loved ones.