MOLLY MIZEN – Wife, Mother, Dancer and Community Champion

The death of Molly Mizen, so suddenly, on Wednesday 13th September, following her return with her beloved husband Bob from one of their so loved dance holidays, has not only sent shock waves through Bob, their three sons and wonderful family, but also the wider community whose lives have been touched and enhanced by contact with Molly, during her very full 75 years.

The farewell service at Eltham Crematorium on Tuesday, 26th September was a moving celebration of her life, with poignant and humorous tributes of memories which they hold so dearly, paid by Bob and all three of their sons, accompanied by wonderful music which depicted the different facets of Molly’s dancing years. The Chapel was packed – even the entrance hall was also full; with friends and family standing shoulder to shoulder – all wishing to share these last precious moments and pay their respects to this wonderful lady for whom they had such affection and admiration.

We heard from Bob of their 54 years of loving married bliss together, of their family life and also of Molly’s lifelong love story with dance. From Ballet to her troupe of ‘Molly’s Majorettes’; her current Adult Education Keep Fit classes and the exercise classes which she specially devised for her disabled group, plus of course, the wonderful ballroom dancing years with Bob (including their days in the Frank and Kay Mercer Formation Team). They had been planning to return to the competitive scene, and with this in mind had been practising their Jive routine whilst on their holiday in Torquay, only 24 hours before her stroke.

It was Molly’s wish that she would be dancing to the end – with, maybe, a glass of wine in her hand! She had her wish, and did it her way! The Frank Sinatra CD, ‘I Did It My Way’ resounded through the Chapel to echo this wish. Molly’s favourite quickstep, Let’s Face the Music and Dance drew the service to a close.

This was a gathering so memorable that it will live on with our own individual memories of Molly. She was a lady who gave so much and expected nothing in return. She brought joy, happiness, laughter and giggles to all around her. She worked untiringly for the benefit of so many. Our dear friend, Molly, who was held by so many in such high esteem, will remain in our memories like a guiding light which will never fade. What an honour and privilege to have known her. Our sincere condolences go to Bob and their family.



Celia Smith 28th September 2006