THE former landlady of the Swan Inn on Poole Quay has died at the age of 91.

Alma Elsa Phillips was born on September 19, 1921 on Blue Boar Lane behind the Jolly Sailor public house.

The daughter of Arthur and Elizabeth Gillingham and one of eight children, her mother died when she was very young so Alma took on the role of housekeeper and cook, having special leave to finish school early to prepare the family’s evening meal.

At 17, she met Ron Phillips, 15, a chocolate boy aboard the Empress of India. Ron fondly remembers disembarking from the steamer and instantly falling in love after setting eyes on the beautiful Alma.

The couple were inseparable for the next 73 years, marrying at St James Church on October 1, 1941 and recently celebrating their 71st wedding anniversary.

They had three daughters; Barbara, Josephine and Jennifer, six grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and one great great-granddaughter.

Alma was landlady of the Swan Inn for 30 years and enjoyed being involved in the ladies’ LVA and the Swan Ladies’ Darts Team. Her delicious food was renowned throughout the town and feasts prepared for the darts teams were legendary.

A well known sun worshipper, who enjoyed holidays in warmer climes, Alma never wanted to stray far from her roots and lived in Poole throughout her life.

During the past few years illness prevented her from leading a full and active life but she was cared for by her family, dedicated carers and health professionals to whom the family would like to extend their immense gratitude.

The devoted wife, mother and grandmother will be much missed and fondly remembered with love and affection as a truly remarkable woman.

Ron and the family would like to thank all who attended Alma’s funeral service at St James Church, Poole on December 3, brought floral tributes and made donations to Dementia UK.