Gillian Falconer: A legacy of kindness

A legacy of kindness GILLIAN FALCONER

Beloved as the manager of her local National Trust shop, Gillian Falconer (History, 1944) was also a woman possessing hidden depths of artistic brilliance, financial acumen and unfailing kindness.

Gillian Falconer was a fiercely independent woman, known throughout her life for her generous spirit, flamboyant wardrobe and sense of fun.

After reading History at Somerville, Gillian settled in St Andrews, where she pursued a lifelong passion for the arts. Initially a photographer, it was with her screen-prints of wild flowers, trees, birds and animals that she made her name. Her work was subsequently sold by both Liberty and The National Trust. Gillian was also keenly aware of the value of money and took an active interest in her investments. She recalled how, as a young girl, she suggested the family solicitor should invest some of the family’s money in Marks & Spencer. The solicitor countered that he could not possibly recommend such an investment, as he wasn’t aware of the company. She later received an apology, as the solicitor had stopped by a Marks & Spencer on the way home from work and now happily held shares in the company. Over the years, Gillian’s wise investing proved fruitful. She was always generous to her friends and the many charities close to her heart, offering both her time as a volunteer and her ongoing support. She served as an Honorary Vice President of the St Andrew’s Trust and helped manage the local National Trust shop, alongside many other volunteering commitments.

Gillian loved the College’s project to digitise the work and correspondence of Mary Somerville, and was hugely supportive of the Library’s efforts. One of the very last gifts she made was to arrange for wheelchairs to be sent to Burkino Faso to provide mobility for disabled children.

In 2016 Gillian passed away, remembered by those closest to her as a beloved sister, aunt, greataunt and friend. She honoured her lifelong connection to Somerville by including the College as a beneficiary of a residuary legacy, trusting us to direct her generous gift to the area of greatest need. She couldn’t have known how much the world would transform in such a short space of time, nor how grateful the College would be for her support as we navigate these uncertain financial conditions.

We look forward to mounting a plaque in the Library as a lasting tribute to Gillian, her love of giving, and her legacy – a final act of kindness that will benefit many.

If you would like more information about including the College in your estate planning, please contact Brett de Gaynesford –

brett.degaynesford@some.ox.ac.uk