Eileen Mary Smith was born in Merton, Surrey, daughter of the late Tom and Doris Smith of Lower Morden. The youngest of three she had the fondest memories of her childhood with big brothers Ron and David.  Eileen was also close with her large extended family and cherished the happy occasions with her many aunties, uncles, and cousins.
 
Throughout her life Eileen shared many exciting tales of being a teenager in London as the fifties turned to the swinging sixties. Her enthusiasm for socialising and dancing lead her to meet George Grute who was playing in a London jazz club. They were soon married. 
 
Eileen and George settled in Basingstoke in 1968 with 3-year-old son Russell. They were further blessed when daughter Abilene was born in 1971 to complete their family.  In 1976 the family moved to create their dream home in Chineham, where Eileen lived the for the rest of her life.
 
In 1995 Eileen met an old friend, Gary Spencer, and they finally married in 2010. She loved her garden, together they spent much of their time to keep both home and garden beautiful. She loved nothing more than to cook new recipes and to entertain her friends and family. 
 
After bravely enduring her illness, Eileen passed away at home with her husband and children by her side on Thursday 14 March 2024. 
 
Cremation will take place at Basingstoke Crematorium on Friday 5th April at 2.45 followed by a celebration of her life at the Wheatsheaf. All are welcome.
 
Flowers should be sent directly to the Funeral Director L Titcombe & Family, Basingstoke.