When Sharon Davis enrolled as a Brownie at the age of seven, she would never have dreamed that it was the start of a journey that would take her all over the world.

Over the next six decades, Sharon rose through the ranks of the Guiding movement to become a District and Division Commissioner.

The prestigious role led to numerous international trips, including South America, Thailand, Scandinavia and the United States, where she promoted the organisation and took part in community work .

Sadly, Sharon, 67, who lived in Chatham, passed away suddenly - and, unsurprisingly, her funeral was attended by many of the hundreds of people touched by her personality over the years.

Among them were those she worked with at the Phoenix Primary Academy in Chatham, where she was a school secretary from 1996 until her retirement in 2022.

In between her action-packed life, Sharon, married to William, also aged 67, brought up three daughters, Nicola, 42, Samantha,40 and Mykaela, 39.

After marrying William in 1980, she moved to Chatham, where they started a family.

As her girls became involved in Girlguiding, her passion was reignited, and she joined the 1st Chatham North Brownies around 1994/95 as an assistant leader.

Under her leadership, the unit flourished, expanding to include Rainbows, Guides, and, in the last 10 years, Rangers.

Daughter Nicola said: “Her commitment extended beyond the unit, serving as both District and Division Commissioner, where she continued to champion opportunities for girls at every level.

“Her devotion to Girlguiding was unwavering. She gave her all to the girls, creating unforgettable experiences, including international trips, and nurturing a space where every girl felt valued and empowered.”

Before her passing, Sharon had been looking forward to the international jamboree last month (August) at the Kent Showground at Detling, Maidstone.

Nicola said one of her ideas was to create little knitted penguins to hide around the camp, each carrying a message of friendship.

She added: “She devoted countless hours to knitting them, even continuing while on holiday in Tenerife.

“We finished what she started, continuing to knit in her spirit and ensuring her penguins and her presence were felt throughout the event.

“It was a labour of love and we hope we did her proud.”

Unit leaders from 1st Chatham North, which meets at the academy where she worked, also paid tributes to their colleague.

Gillian Jarvis said: “Sharon was one of life’s people who thrived on showing others a better way.

“She quietly recognised people’s strengths and limitations and quickly set about directing them to where they would experience success.”

Jayne Spillett, added: “Sharon was an inspiration to young girls and women around, including me.

“She was a true friend and has left a huge hole in many hearts.”.

Joanne Penn added: “She was the most dedicated and passionate person I’ve ever met, at work, Guides, and to her family and friends.”

Sharon died on June 23. Her funeral took place at Medway Crematorium in Blue Bell Hill on July 23.