Mary Hallett

1911-2004

It is with sadness that we would like to confirm that Mary Hallett died peacefully in her sleep, after a brief illness, in Uckfield Hospital, East Sussex at 8am on Tuesday 30th March.

Mary was born on the 6th January 1911 in a bedroom at Cotchford Farm and spent a happy childhood in the then home of author A. A. Milne. Apart from five years in East Grinstead and then Forest Row she spent her life living in Cotchford Lane, a stone's throw from her birthplace.

In early 1969, after Brian Jones moved into Cotchford Farm, Mary became his housekeeper and friend - sharing confidences and quality time with the troubled pop star. Her fondest memories were of weekends sitting around her kitchen table with Brian, drinking endless cups of tea and of their long chats, often reading and discussing the bible together.

Mary had two children, Derek and Elizabeth from her first marriage and in 1948, after marrying Les, a third child Pauline joined their family. Unfortunately Derek died in a tragic motorcycle accident in 1968 - in later years Mary would often talk fondly of her son as she sat beneath his simple, hand drawn portrait hanging on the lounge wall.

Les and Mary never forgot their brief time with Brian and would never turn fans and visitors from all over the world away from their door, they both always respected his memory and openly shared their thoughts and memories with their guests over a cup of tea and a generous portion of Les's home baked cakes. Throughout many conversations Mary could frequently be heard referring to her 'three boys' as she pointed to her pictures of Derek, Brian and her cat, Jake.

Mary will be sadly missed by her family and many friends around the world, if you would like to offer your condolences then please write to les.hallett@brianjonesfanclub.com and we will pass all your messages on to her family who we feel certain, will be comforted by your thoughts.

Mary Hallett's funeral service took place on Thursday 8th April 2004.