Lady Jadranka Beresford-Peirse, Croatia heritage champion, dies aged 88

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 22 Oct, 08:32 · Archive

Lady Jadranka Beresford-Peirse MBE, who dedicated decades to preserving Croatia's cultural heritage, has died aged 88 from natural causes.

Lady Jadranka Beresford-Peirse MBE, widow of the late Sir Henry, died from natural causes aged 88. She was remembered as a 'force of nature' who left a mark on everyone around her. Her funeral was held at St Gregory's Church in Bedale, where family and friends paid tribute to the devoted mother and grandmother.

Born and raised in communist Yugoslavia, Lady Beresford-Peirse first came to England in the 1950s and returned in the 1960s after completing her studies. She met Henry Beresford-Peirse after being invited to Bedale by a friend for Christmas, and they married. Her son Johnny told mourners that apart from the loss of their twins, his parents enjoyed many years of happiness and joy. He recalled her dedication to ensuring her children could speak Croatian and feel a connection to the country.

When war broke out in Yugoslavia in 1991 and Croatia became independent, Lady Beresford-Peirse committed herself to protecting its heritage and culture amid appalling destruction. Her work helped restore historic buildings and support livelihoods in the aftermath of the conflict. She was also known locally for producing preserves, particularly red currant juice, which in some circles became known as the 'dreaded juice'.

How it is being reported

• Tributes to North Yorkshire's 'force of nature', 88, who who championed CroatiaA much-loved North Yorkshire woman who dedicated decades of her life to preserving Croatia’s cultural heritage has been remembered as a “force of nature” who left a mark on everyone around her.The Northern Echo · 22 Oct, 08:00
• Tributes to North Yorkshire's 'force of nature', 88, who who championed CroatiaLady Jadranka Beresford-Peirse MBE, widow of the late Sir Henry, died from natural causes aged 88.Darlington & Stockton Times · 22 Oct, 08:00

In this story: Lady Jadranka Beresford-Peirse · Sir Henry Beresford-Peirse · Croatia · Yugoslavia · Bedale · North Yorkshire

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