Judith Chalmers OBE – 1935-2026
We are very sad to hear the news that long-term Taverners member and supporter Judith Chalmers has passed away.
Judith was one of the 23 initial honorary members of the Lady Taverners, the fundraising arm of the Lord’s Taverners which was formed in 1980, before becoming President Emeritus.
She was at the heart and soul of the Taverners, and the epitome of ‘having fun while fundraising’. Judith had a big part to play in so many fundraising successes during her time with the charity, whether it be through donations herself or helping secure high-profile supporters to be special guests at our unique fundraising events, including her annual tribute lunches, which raised thousands of pounds for the cause.
Judith was also regularly present for the annual Lady Taverners Fun Days for SEND school pupils at locations such as Chessington World of Adventures, girls cricket competitions, presentations of adapted minibuses and play spaces at SEND schools, always engaging with pupils and staff, and looking to see first-hand the impact of our fundraising.
We pass on our sincere condolences and best wishes to her husband Neil Durden-Smith, family and friends at this sad time.
Lord’s Taverners CEO, Mark Curtin said: “Judy was a much loved and very popular past President of the Lady Taverners and proud member of the Lord's Taverners. I am personally very grateful to her and her husband Durders for their friendship and support since I arrived at the Taverners. Judy was always welcoming, kind, friendly and very generous of her thanks and praise to the whole team for their hard work and commitment to our participants. She will be sorely missed by a huge number of people, including everyone across the Lord's Taverners family. Rest in peace Judy and thank you for everything! Thoughts and condolences to Neil and the whole family.”