On War Widows Day this year, former State President Wendy Thompson and former Board Director Lynne Boyd delivered a heartfelt tribute to two remarkable women. The late Audrey Blood OAM and Diana Bland who were former presidents of the War Widows Guild of NSW. Both Audrey and Diana dedicated their lives to serving others and left an enduring legacy within the community. 

“When I first met Audrey, I remember a lady of tremendous “presence” who had style and was always impeccably groomed.  A favorite saying of hers was “The State President is the face of the Guild.” And she certainly was, putting forward her best. Yet she also always had a softness to her which showed how much she cared about every war widow.” Said Wendy 

“Diana was an incredible woman who, like Audrey embodied the meaning of service and the War Widows motto, particularly “in serving each other and in sacrificing for our common good we are finding our true life.” Said Lynne.  

Wendy reflected on Audreys influence stating, “Audrey was an inspiration to so many. She knew how to make people feel welcome and encouraged the best in us all.” Audreys service spanned over 30 years, and her dedication was recognised with an OAM in 2002, yet her compassion for war widows never waned. 

Lynne shared memories of Dianas friendship, describing how she helped her through widowhood by creating bonds of support. “Diana showed me that though I had lost my husband, all was not lost” Lynne said, noting Dianas dedication even in her final months. 

Both women left behind a legacy of care and compassion, inspiring others to continue their important work in the war widows community. 

Video tribute 

In a moving video tribute, war widows Jenny Ware, Lynne Boyd, Mary Palframan, Wendy McKean, and Dawn Welfare share heartfelt memories and thoughts of Audrey Blood OAM and Diana Bland, the two extraordinary women who left a lasting impact on the War Widows Guild. These widows reflect on the strength, compassion, and leadership that defined Audrey and Diana’s contributions to the community in this touching video about War Widows Day.

Please view below. 

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