Delia Southern (14 May 1940 - 30 Aug 2023)

Strong, smart, loving and straight-forward. Delia's life was well lived and her spirit lives on in all of us who knew and love her.

Born in 1940, Delia lived in Burnley, Preston, Manchester, Bolton and Leyland - a true Lancastrian. She was so proud to gain a place at Balshaws Grammar School in Leyland aged 11 and excelled academically. Unable to go to University, she threw herself into work as a Librarian, then as a Technical Librarian at British Aerospace - she knew more top secret information than almost anyone! Delia met Neville aged 21 at County Hall and they married at the beautiful Samlesbury Hall in March 1963. She was shocked to be expecting twins daughters 6 years later - and still blames Neville's family history. Laura and Linda arrived in March 1969 and Val completed their family in August 1972.

Never one to rest on her laurels, Delia studied for her BSc in Psychology with three small children at home. Senior manager roles followed with Courtaulds, the NHS and BTEC. She was passionate about continuous learning through her life, and always encouraged her children and grandchildren to try new experiences , stretch themselves, and change direction often.

Delia's lifelong interests included reading, linguistics, natural beauty, antiques, and giving to others. She was proud to be non-traditional and her views were often ahead of her time.

Her legacy is a powerful one.