Christine Gale Lees nee Ecob RIP

Christine Gale Lees (née Ecob), service number 115711, was born on the 28th of July 1940 at 29 Leicester Road, Blaby,Leicestershire. Chris joined the WRNS aged 18 in 1958 and served at the following bases, HMS Pembroke, HMS Collingwood, HMS Condor, HMS Seahawk, HMS Dauntless, HMS President.

In this time Chris represented the Navy in several sports including Athletics, Netball, Badminton, Cricket and Hockey. There are many photos of her in various sports teams, all of her with a beaming smile!

In 1969 Chris was promoted to Chief Wren. Originally signed up for 22 years, Chris was discharged in December 1970, with her first son being born one month later. Special remarks on the discharge notice read “A loyal and trustworthy member of the wrens, who has made a valuable contribution to the service.” Christine absolutely adored her time serving in the WRNS.

Chris was very happily married to “Bob” for 49 years before he sadly passed away in 2013. Christine had two sons, and three grandchildren. Drawing on from her love of sports and her work in the WRNS, Chris served in many roles in the local, and county golf associations. Spanning five decades, Chris was elected and served as; Captain and then President of Leamington and County golf club. Honorary treasurer, and President for Warwickshire Ladies. Treasurer, Captain and President, for Warwickshire Ladies Vets. Chris also sat on the committee of English Seniors golfer’s association. She was the first and only female President of Leamington and County golf club. A feminist trailblazer! At the tender age of 80, Chris managed to get two “hole in ones” in the same year!

Christine sadly passed away on the 18th of October 2022, aged 82. She was cared for lovingly by her two sons, in her final few months. Her funeral was very well attended, and she has now been laid to rest alongside her beloved husband Bob, in Temple Balsall, Warwickshire. Rest in peace.

Source: Tim Lees (Son)