Remembering and celebrating the life of Amy Williams (OB, Priory House 2013-18)

The whole school community was very sad to learn of the death of Amy Williams (Hazlegrove, 2007-13. Priory House, King’s Bruton 2013-18) at the end of March this year. Amy was a much-loved, and deeply-cherished Brutonian, whose warmth, gentleness, and humility shined like a diamond. The way she approached her long battle with cancer was truly inspirational.

On Sunday 19^th June, over 150 people, including scores of current and old Brutonians, gathered in St Mary’s Church, alongside Amy’s family and friends, for a service celebrating Amy’s incredible life. Dozens of other people, scattered around the world, watched the service via a livestream video. We were blessed to reflect on the innumerable joyous memories we have of Amy, and to sing hymns that echoed the things she loved and the way she lived. Alongside prayers and a reflection, it was special to hear Amy’s closest friends share happy memories, sing songs dedicated to her, and play a piece on the piano in honour of her. At the reception after the service, the School community, past and present, continued to celebrate all the amazing things that Amy was, and Amy did.

Amy’s passing leaves a huge hole in so many peoples’ hearts. In the morning before the service, a tree was planted at Hazlegrove in memory of Amy. The plaque that stands at its base captures best the Amy we all knew and loved: “In loving memory of Amy Williams 1999-2022. The unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit.”

A beautiful oak tree planted at @HazlegrovePrep in memory of Amy Williams (@KingsBruton @KSBPrioryHouse 2013-18). Yesterday, we also celebrated Amy's incredible life with a service at St Mary's, Bruton. Amy shined like a diamond - may we be those who keep that legacy alive. pic.twitter.com/mwA8T8WgVE

— Chaplain (@KSBChaplain) June 20, 2022

Today present & past pupils and staff @KingsBruton along with her family & friends celebrated the life of Amy in a wonderful service led by @KSBChaplain. Past and present Priory staff & pupils also came together to plant a rose in her memory in the Priory garden. pic.twitter.com/VlFiez6Nzq

— Priory House (@KSBPrioryHouse) June 19, 2022