Yvonne Habkirk (12 Sep 1964 - 4 Jan 2024)

In loving memory of Yvonne Habkirk who sadly passed away on 4th January 2024

Memories of Yvonne

Yvonne spent the first few years of her life in Newdigate, a little village in Surrey surrounded by fields and nature. This probably first ignited her love of wildlife.

She was quickly joined by her brother Gez, and then they moved to Dorking. They had an unusual childhood, surrounded by half built boats in the garden, and weekends away sailing and camping. A large house filled with her fathers collected ‘treasures’ and lights that you had to turn on with a broomstick handle so as not to get electrocuted (despite him being an electrician)!

At 20 she went to a Halloween party that would change the course of her life; there she met her future husband John, who after just 6 weeks of dating, knew she was the one and proposed on Christmas Eve.

The next few years were filled with buying their own home, holidays abroad and to Devon and enjoying life together. They married June 6th 1987. For their honeymoon they travelled across Canada on a sleeper train!

Yvonne was a quiet activist, and at this time protested against the lack of crossing across a busy road by her offices. Her efforts led to a permanent bridge being built, which meant safety for those working there. This activism carried on throughout her life and she would regularly write to MPs to highlight issues, many wildlife related. Only a few months ago she was stood outside Horsham Town Hall protesting against plans to expand building onto green belt land and the centre parcs building on protected woodland.

In 1988 they learnt she was pregnant; just days before a surprise holiday to Paris. Unfortunately this led to her spending more time cradling the hotel toilet than exploring the Parisian sights. Zoe was born in April 89 and then followed by Daniel in 93. Around this time Yvonne found religion, and was very passionate about her beliefs.

Although she struggled with mental health, she never gave up and tried to make the best of every moment. At 54 she was diagnosed with autism and ADD; she said that it was like everything suddenly made sense in her life. Finally she no longer felt broken or like there was something wrong with her. She fully embraced who she was, and accepted herself entirely.

Yvonne was the epitome of a purely altruistic person. She cared deeply for others, and only wanted the best for everyone. She would often give, whatever resources she had, to those in need, even at her own expense. Yvonne never asked for anything for herself and truly was happy focusing on the small things in life such as a flower bloom, or the colours created by a sunset.

She spent several years caring for Zoe and her grandchildren after health problems made times difficult. She never once complained. Some of our fondest memories are of the adventures she took us on; whether it was a simple picnic in the park or driving through central London for a day trip out. She gave so much to make sure everyone’s lives were full and happy.

Her autism diagnosis led to a reawakening of her interests and goals for the future. As well as pursuing her art and craft interests, Yvonne and John began planning to move to Devon. Yvonne had always loved the sea, and they were both very excited to move to live by it. The last year was spent visiting different areas of Devon and pinpointing exactly where they wanted to be. She was so excited to move to Sidmouth, and loved how friendly and accepting everyone they met was there.

Yvonne was taken from us too soon. Nothing will ever fill the hole she has left behind. Her gentle guidances her unconditional support, the endless love and safety she made us feel, can never be forgotten. Her infectious laughter and the way her smile lit up the room are blessing we will always hold close.

Her life passions of nature, conservation, faith and caring about others have become foundations in all of our lives. As well as her questionable love of the film Speed which she liked to watch many many times!

We lost more than a wife, mum and nan, we’ve lost a close friend. A friend who loved us fiercely and never expected anything in return. A friend who wanted the best for everyone.

How does the world keep spinning without the light of such a rare spirit?