Dr Clare Gough – Member and former chair of the Othona Community

It is with sadness that the Othona Community trustees announce the death of a long term member of the Community & their former chair, Clare Gough on 25th August following a long & courageous fight with pancreatic cancer. 

Clare was a remarkable gift to the Othona Community, from her first stays as a visitor to West Dorset to her plunging into Bradwell life with her husband Andrew to counterbalance her initial experience of community in West Dorset. She had a real love for Othona which manifested itself when she willingly shouldered the responsibilities of chairing the trustees soon after joining the board in 2018. Despite debilitating illness she remained selfless in her support of the community and help to the trustees, long after most would have laid down all trustee responsibilities. 

Before retiring Clare was a consultant in the pathology department of Salisbury hospital where she also acted as a medical director. She enjoyed singing in a local folk group and had an infectious laugh which brought joy. Her Christian faith was strong and she had a regular meditation practice which grounded her through good times and through difficulties. 

Clare’s contributions to the Othona Community, as a supporter, member and chair were huge. May the Othona community always be blessed with individuals who ‘get’ both its practical, administrative and governance needs on the one hand and its spiritual identity and Christian heart on the other. She was an inspiration. Our sympathies go to Andrew and her family and friends who knew her best. 

Her funeral is at St Thomas’ church Salisbury on Thursday 24th September at noon. Donations in Clare’s memory are to Salisbury Hospice that cared for Clare so beautifully and PLANETs (pancreatic cancer and other endocrine and gut cancers) & can be made through 

I.N. Newman Ltd. 

Griffin House 

55 Winchester St 

Salisbury 

SP1 1 HL 01722 413136 

People may ring and donate by card or send a cheque. If a cheque is sent please write Clare Gough and 24/9/26 on the reverse 

Jane Pearse, vice chair