TRIBUTES have been paid to a wonderful woman who passed away aged 71.

Eileen Mary Rishton of Accrington died on November 3.

She was the loving wife to Ronnie, doting mum to Wayne, Paul, Louise and the late John, dear mother-in-law to Anita, Kath and Andy, cherished grandma to Ben, Alexandra, Oliver, James and Tom, and much loved sister of Peter, Derek the late Sheila and the late Tony.

Her son, Paul, paid tribute and said: “Love you mum, gonna miss our Sunday afternoons, can’t believe I won’t speak to you again, you always wanted to live and you fought a terrific fight.

“I know you wanted to go and look after John, miss you so much, sleep now mum you’ll always be in my thoughts.”

Growing up Eileen was a talented studio artist. She held an exhibition at Haworth Art Gallery and took great pride in her work.

She would draw for her family and friends from photographs and this was something she was passionate about, however she never went professional due to her loyal, loving commitment to her family.

Eileen loved her role as a housewife and mother she was dearly loved by her husband and children. Eileen also held down various roles in retail retiring from her job in a pharmacy.

Eileen loved to socialise and together with her daughter Louise they shared many girly holidays to Ibiza and Magaluf. Eileen loved the sunshine and holidays and had a love of music, especially 50s and 60s love songs.

A family friend Samantha Hodge paid tribute to her and said: “I have so many lovely memories of my girly afternoons with Eileen and Louise.

“Eileen was a true lady, beautiful inside and out. Sandy and I will truly miss her.

“All my love to her amazing family especially Louise who couldn’t have been a more devoted daughter and best friend to Eileen.”