Husband of Marlow woman who died in Sainsbury's speaks out

Joan Clarke, 85, passed away on October 23 just three days short of her 86th birthday after falling ill at the supermarket.

She had initially left the premises after completing her shopping, only to return moments later when she realised she had forgotten to purchase one item.

Upon returning, she suffered an ‘internal haemorrhage’ that resulted in her sudden passing.

The emergency services were called to the West Street outlet and immediately arrived, but sadly, Mrs Clarke was unable to be saved.

Her husband, Derrick Clarke, described his late wife as a ‘lovely and delightful woman’.

Joan Clarke passed away at age 85, three days before her 86th birthday (Image: NA) He told the Free Press: “We met when we were 12 years old and were married for 63 fantastic years.

“She was a very generous and lovely lady and I will miss her dearly.”

A keen charity worker, Mrs Clarke raised tens of thousands of pounds for TWA (Third World Aid), a cause that was close to her heart.

Mr Clarke continued: “For over 40 years, Joan would give her support to charities helping children in some of the poorest areas of the world.

“Her notoriety came from her baking stalls, as she made several delightful cakes with all the money going to Third World Aid.

“She was kindness herself.

The incident happened on October 23 inside Sainsury's along West Street in Marlow (Image: Google Maps)

Mrs Clarke’s memorial service will take place on Friday, November 22 at St Peter’s Church in Marlow at 11.am. 

Those attending have been asked not to leave flowers, but instead a donation to Médecins Sans Frontières.

This was a charity that was 'very close' to Mrs Clarke’s heart.