Farewell after 76 years
Eileen Bromley passed away on 7 November at the age of 92, ending a ministry of 76 years and a lifetime with Jesus that continues in heaven.
A woman of immense faith, she would surely face her final days with the same unwavering confidence, determination and peace with God that she embodied daily. She was dearly loved by her family, friends, neighbours, the village of Kibworth and the entire Methodist community. Born on 18 February 1933 in Kibworth, she lived at 18 Gladstone Street her entire life.
Her father, a World War I veteran, survived his injuries and became a father to two children, Eileen and Norman. She adored her older brother, Norman, and they endured the hardships of World War II together.
Raised in a Christian Methodist family, Eileen developed a strong faith. At 16, she preached her first sermon and as a teenage preacher, she cycled to Great Easton for evening services. After university, she became a Methodist Local Preacher and was fully accredited in 1960 at the age of 27.
Eileen pursued a career in teaching. She joined Southfield Girls School in Kettering where she rose to the position of deputy head, specialising in Religious Education. Eileen excelled at teaching and preaching. Her sharp mind, active nature and organisational skills made her a formidable and well-organised person. She was an outstanding communicator and inspired her students and congregation equally.
Eileen taught at Southfield School for 28 years until she retired at 53. She then became a Local
Preachers’ Tutor at Kibworth Methodist Church, training successful preachers and ordained ministers. Retirement allowed her to explore new ministries, including writing textbooks for the new GCSE syllabus for RE. She produced standard texts on Christianity, Judaism and the Gospels. It was important that these books were written by someone with a genuine Christian faith. In her book, ‘The Gospels Today’, Eileen emphasised the importance of referring to the Bible alongside the textbook, as the examination is on the text of the Gospels.
Eileen became a prison visitor and chaplain at Gartree Prison, alongside others from Kibworth Methodist Church. Her tireless, devoted and compassionate work involved approaching prisoners with a no-nonsense yet loving manner, offering grace, repentance and a chance for a fresh start. Upon release, Eileen continued to support many, some staying in contact in Kibworth while others pursued different ministries or evangelism. Some became friends.
She cared for her parents and brother until their deaths.
Her home, adorned with her extensive book collection, welcomed everyone warmly. Known for her legendary shortbread and knitting, she knitted over 700-800 jumpers for an African charity. She was a lifelong nature enthuiast too and cherished her garden daily birdwatching.
Eileen’s retirement allowed her to travel, particularly to the Holy Land and Egypt, which influenced her writing and preaching.
Despite her declining health, Eileen received support from her family and friends. This intervention likely prevented a serious illness from worsening. After recovery, she led a Bible study group in her home, where women valued her encouragement.
Eileen was highly regarded in the Methodist Church. She wrote the definitive history of Kibworth Chapel and has a significant part in it.
In her last week she led her house group from her bed, enjoying the time with everyone. Before going into hospital on Thursday 6th November, she spent the morning reminiscing happily with a dear friend. Eileen will be greatly missed.
Salvo Brass Concert at St Wilfrid’s Church
