Former Merton Park Councillor Dies Aged 103

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A mentor for local women in politics

Former Merton Park councillor and Honorary Alderman, Ethel Davis has died at the age of 103.

Mrs Davis' public service spanned 25 years. She served as a Conservative councillor on the former Merton and Morden Urban District Council and went on to represent residents in Merton Park ward following the formation of the London Borough of Merton in 1965. She retired in 1986.

Her roots were in Wales, but she spent most of her adult life in Merton Park, becoming a local councillor at a time when it was relatively rare for women to take up roles in public life. Women subsequently elected as members valued the informal mentoring they received from her. 

With an interest in education and health, Mrs Davis did not take a prominent political role, preferring to concentrate on serving the interests of her constituents and helping them get the most from their council services.

Her tireless support for the British Legion was appreciated by many. She set up and ran one of their first shops after World War II.

Widowed in 1981, Mrs David continued an active life right to the end and still lived in her own home. She had a wide circle of friends and loved dancing. A congregation of family and friends, including current and former councillors, attended her funeral last week (20 March) at St Mary's Church, Merton Park.

Mayor of Merton Councillor Agatha Akyigyina said: “Ethel Davis was a shining example of old-style public service, rooted in her community, compassionate and caring.  She was a loyal friend and colleague to many here in Merton in all that she did.”

March 25, 2015