BELOVED Isle of Wight chaplain and former teacher, Elizabeth Peace, has died aged 81.

She was born at Grant Road, Farlington, to Alma and Harold Peace.

She went to an all-girls' school and became head girl.

She became a teacher, and after moving to the Isle of Wight, taught at Upper Chine and Newport CE School.

Ms Peace was well known for various activities across the Island, and was involved in the Canata Choir, Isle of Wight Foot Beagles, Blackwater Mill Retirement Home and the Farming Community.

She will be fondly remembered by her family, as well as her nieces and nephews, who she held so dear.

Her dedication to the church and her friends will be sorely missed.

Former High Sheriff, now Lord Lieutenant, Susie Sheldon, read at her funeral.

She said: “Ms Peace was a very special lady and a very good friend to me. She was my chaplain when I was High Sheriff and we had a lot of fun together. I will miss her wisdom, stoicism and humour.”

Steve Sutcliffe, team vicar for Newport, Carisbrooke and Gatcombe, conducted the service.

He said: “She was a truly wonderful lady who gave so much in a lifetime of service. Elizabeth was an institution who broke the mould, the likes of which we will rarely see again.”

Her nephew, Cllr Ian Dore said: “She was the most selfless and energetic individual you could ever wish to meet, and a huge part of our upbringing.

"My eldest daughter and her had such a connection, it's heartbreaking knowing that hole can never be filled. She was a one off.”

Ms Peace, of Binstead, died on June 28 at St Mary's Hospital following a long illness.

Her funeral was held on Thursday at St Olave's Church in Gatcombe.

A memorial service is planned to celebrate her life, later in the year.