West Heath Old Girls Association

Ann Williamson, who was headmistress at West Heath from the mid-90s until it’s closure in 1997, passed away on 13 August (2024) aged 86, in New Zealand.

Mrs Williamson, who was appointed after the departure of Rosemary Ditchburn, was previously the headmistress at Stratford House in Bickley until it amalgamated with Farringtons in Chislehurst in 1994.

During her tenure at West Heath, Mrs Williamson oversaw the refurbishment of Castle and an upgrade of one of the colt bungalows which had become the home of deputy head Deborah Odysseus.

Before the closure of the school, she also planned to launch the West Heath Nursery School in a static building which was set up next to The Rudge Sports Hall.

Mrs Williamson’s death was announced by her daughter Clare who said: “It’s with great sadness to let you know my Mum, (Alicia) Ann Williamson, passed away peacefully in the early hours of Tuesday, 13 August at Bert Sutcliffe Retirement Home in Auckland, New Zealand.

“Mum was a big personality, and you always knew when she had entered the room. She threw everything into her many passions – theatre, music, education, fencing, travel, rugby, friends, and her family.

“Many have also spoken to me about the impact she had on them at times of difficulty or helping them make important decisions. She never shied from a tricky conversation or the opportunity to help and make life better for others, which I think was in part due to challenges she also faced throughout life. Sure she is sorting out heaven right now.”

A funeral was held on Friday 16 August, at St Peter’s Church, Takapuna. A tribute which appeared on the New Zealand Herald website stated:

‘WILLIAMSON, Alicia Ann (nee Bligh). Ann died peacefully on 13 August 2024 at Bert Sutcliffe Retirement Village, aged 86. Dearly loved wife of the late John; Mother to Clare and Mother-in-law to Nick; treasured Nanna to Katie and Cooper.

‘Ann’s family wish to thank all the amazing staff at Bert Sutcliffe for the joy, care and respect they gave her in the last 18 months. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Dementia NZ, St Peter’s Anglican Church or a local drama or musical theatre company that you have enjoyed.’

Mrs Williamson was also an enthusiastic member of Bromley Players where, as well as performing, she held the positions of chair, secretary, and more recently the honorary position of president.

A tribute from the Players said: “Ann first appeared on stage with Bromley Players in Princess Ida in 1976 and her most recent show was our 50th anniversary concert in 2017, meaning she performed on stage for over 40 years with us.

“Ann will fondly be remembered as the person who was always willing to let her house be used for after show parties, stored costumes in her loft, and supported Bromley Players through many of our different eras.

“For many of our members they will remember her as someone who was always willing to help, chat and support them as well as someone full of life on and off stage.”