Louise Cotes Read, of Hampstead, London and spouse of the late John Read, BBC art film producer, died peacefully in London in December 2014 at the age of 82 after a long and difficult struggle with cancer.

Originally from Quebec, where she was a successful journalist for prestigious publications, Louise had lived in London for more than 45 years but regularly went back to Quebec each year to visit her family and friends and walk along her beloved St-Lawrence River.

Louise was an ardent fan of the arts, most particularly, the theatre; she was a supporter of the National Theatre, the Tricycle Theatre, Everyman Cinema, Glyndebourne and the Royal Opera House among others. She was also a very active philanthropist, supporting many great causes such as Human Writes, Royal Lifeboats, Water Aid and Sight Savers, to name a few.

Louise was a self-confessed fighter; always fighting for her rights and the rights of those around her. She was quick-witted and had a wicked sense of humour. When she was pleased about something she would beam, and she loved a good laugh. Louise is survived by many family members in Quebec, and will be missed by friends from around the World. A "Celebration of Life" will be held in London in the spring (for more information, please contact edpinuk@hotmail.com).

DAWN PHELPS

Louise Cotes Read: born 22 May 1932; died 1 December 2014.