Huge Loss to our local Community

Many of you will already have heard that Dave Orchard and Jacqui Wheatley passed away recently. Both were Members of the Museum, but more widely and in their different ways played a huge role in our local community.

Some of the responses on hearing of Dave's loss from Museum members included:

What sad news, such a shock, Dave grew up just down the road from us, so we have always known him, and we served on the Carnival Committee together. - Doreen

I'm so sorry to hear about Dave's passing. He was a great help to me getting to grips with stewarding and maintenance at the museum. - Martin

That it is terrible news. Dave was always so cheerful and upbeat; if ever I had a problem he would try and find a solution for me. He will be sadly missed. - Gerrie

He will be sadly missed not only by the museum but also for his community work through many organisations and as a local councillor. - Liz

Dave (centre and kneeling) was pivotal in helping the Maintenance team lower the Stringfellow Triplane in late December.

Nigel, who worshipped at the same church, Chard Methodist, as Jacqui wrote 'Jacquie was known by so many people of Chard as the Maths teacher and mentor at Holyrood school. She worked at Holyrood for 31 years. She will be missed by many people and former students'

Jacqui's funeral service will take place at 12:00 on Tuesday 01st February at Taunton Crematorium. The funeral will be relayed via Zoom. More details are available from Barry Gibb Funeral Directors. A celebratory service will be held at Chard Methodist Church at 15:00 the same day.

Dave's funeral will take place on Friday 04th February at 12:00 at Taunton Crematorium. The family have asked for no flowers. All donations will go to Chard Museum.