TRIBUTES have been paid to a former councillor who dedicated huge chunks of her life to helping others after she died following a fight with cancer.

Lilian Greenfield died aged 86 on August 25 following a “soft tissue” cancer diagnosis during the pandemic lockdown.

Mrs Greenfield was an Essex County Councillor for Billericay North between 1969 and 1997.

During her time as councillor she met many notable people, including members of the royal family - which she held close to her heart.

Between the 1980s and 1990s she met Princess Diana and King, then Prince, Charles. She also met Princess Anne and Princess Margaret.

Her daughter Angela added: “She liked them all and I’ve even got some pictures of mum introducing dad to Princess Diana.”

Mrs Greenfield was married to her husband Derek for 27 years until his death in 1998. He was also a Basildon councillor.

The couple lived in Billericay all their married life and had one daughter, Angela.

Mr and Mrs Greenfield were big fans of travelling across Europe in motorhomes and caravans.

Angela said: “As a child it started off with camping then we moved onto the caravans.

“Mum and dad were actively involved with organising rallies and they loved going around Europe, even joining the Belgium motorhome club.

“They have a lot of good friends over in Belgium.”

Mrs Greenfield was recognised as a kind and philanthropic woman who helped people whenever she could, even into her 80s.

She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren, watching shows such as Mr Bean, Made in Chelsea and even Love Island.

Angela added: “In 1997 she was chairman of the committee that raised £10,000 for repairs to St Mary Magdalene Church, in Great Burstead.

“With the Inner Wheel she always helped with the Chernobyl children that came every year.”

Mrs Greenfield was admitted to Basildon Hospital last December and then transferred to Anisha Grange nursing home in Billericay at the start of the year.

Angela spoke about the transition into the nursing home.

She said: “I guess it was the only thing she could do, after being in hospital for a few weeks she wasn’t mobile enough to look after herself.

“I was relieved when she wanted to go in the nursing home, it was getting a bit much for us both really.”

Mrs Greenfield’s funeral was held on Friday, September 22.