Essex Metropolitan Netball Association is saddened to advise of the death of its former Chairman, Rita Shea. Rita died on 31 October at Ravenscourt Nursing Home, peacefully after a short illness.

Rita was Chairman of Essex Met for over 30 years, making her the (or one of the) longest-serving Chairman in England. She had previously been our Treasurer and was also an established umpire and Chairman of New Cambell Netball Club. Her contribution to netball was recognised by the England Netball Long Service Award in 2016. Born in Swansea, she had a successful teaching career in Barking & Dagenham and was well-known and well-regarded by generations of students and netballers.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Rita’s family and friends at this sad time.

A Requiem Mass was held on 22 November in Goodmayes, Ilford, Essex which was well attended by Rita’s family, friends and colleagues. After this service her family held a Requiem Mass, followed by cremation, in her home town of Swansea. Donations in Rita’s memory were made to St. Francis Hospice.

Pat Meadows

Chairman, Essex Metropolitan Netball Association