BABETTE (BARBRA DAWN) ETTRIDGE

I knew her as Barb initially (but she corrected me later!) & worked with her when she was UK based. My friend Hugh, who also worked with her & me described her thus “she was a funny, lovely, tiny, force of nature”. I can’t argue with a word and was so sorry (and emotional) when I heard the news. Best wishes to her family, friends & colleagues who will miss her immensely

Sending my love and strength to the family. I am so sorry for your loss. I so feel lucky to have known Barb. I am still laughing about the fire in Mark’s story. That was so Babette.

Posting on behalf of Sara Zakout: Barb, you were taken from this world far too soon. You were such a kind, thoughtful and generous soul. I always loved how you could bring people together with so much heart and energy. Despite everything you faced, you showed incredible strength and courage and every moment you were full of life and joy. I’ll always remember your warmth and the way you could light up a room. You will be truly missed lovely. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. - Sara Zakout

Posting on behalf of Suzette Raison de Kori (Colette's sister): only met Babette on several occasions, but she was always warm and welcoming. She has been a very special friend to my sister Colette and will be greatly missed. My sincere condolences to her family and loved ones. Thinking of you all and wishing you comfort and strength in the days ahead. - Suzette Raison de Kori (Colette's sister)

Posting on behalf of Nick C: Love, support, peace and comfort to Val, Mark and families. Babette. Damn it. This world really did just get a whole lot less smart. I'll miss your mischievous humour, your grumpy cat rancour, K-Pop references; and especially your WTF-laden fearless counsel. I will continue the legacy of asking 'why'. I will continue the conversation on the 'value of things', I'm just not sure who with. So long, friend. - Nick C

Posting on behalf of Heidi Carmona: Babette, You made the boring world of Strategic HR a fun and enjoyable place. They had no idea what they were in for! Your quick wit had me in stitches - all day long. Chocolate croissants were our go-to snacks, any excuse to go for a walk and a chat. You believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. You trusted me to edit one of your amazing books. You taught me about angel numbers and nicknamed my daughter Luigi before she was born. You were always supportive, and fought fiercely for who and what you believed in. You touched so many hearts and I was lucky enough to call you my friend. The world has lost an amazing and creative soul. I’ll miss you xo it’s not goodbye, it’s ‘til we meet again. My condolences to Val, Mark and family. - Heidi Carmona

Posting on behalf of Sylvia Boyle: Condolences to family and ftiends. Babette was so lovely and kind, enjoyed life, had a grest sense of humour and amazing with what she accomplished. Will be missed but I am sure she is a star up there as she was when she was with us. So much for all to celebrate her life! - Sylvia Boyle

Posting on behalf of Paul Raxworthy: So sorry to hear of your loss. I worked with Babette for a couple of years and she was a such a pleasure to be with, generous with her knowledge and experience and an inspiration in many ways. Very grateful to have known her. - Paul Raxworthy

Posting on behalf of Col Raison: We named our peahen after Babette at her request. She subsequently denied this in Mark's hearing saying 'how very dare you' and it was merely 'a suggestion'. Feisty and witty to the end and missed terribly. - Col Raison

Posting on behalf of Sophia Gilmour: Babette/Barb: Fiercely loyal, emotionally intelligent, a champion for those who could not stand up for themselves, kind-hearted and a clever mind (creativity juxtaposed with analysis). And, a sense of humour. You touched all our lives in memorable ways, and we won’t forget. Be at peace, my lovely friend. - Sophia Gilmour

Posting on behalf of Carolyn Cruden: Working with Barb at Home Affairs brought so much laughter and camaraderie to our days. Whether it was sneaking snacks from each other's desks, or cracking jokes and pulling some questionable gags on people when we should have been knuckling down, those moments made the workplace feel so special, and were some of my favourite times. Barb was always by my side, especially during tough IT releases that tested our patience and resilience. Barb would stick up for me without hesitation when I faced difficult decisions, and her loyalty and support meant the world. I haven't seen Barb in a while, but was aware she published her book and it was getting great reviews. I am so proud of her and this achievement. Barb's passing has really left a massive gap in so many people's lives. I for one will miss her wit, kindness and unwavering friendship she showed the people she cared about. Until we meet again Barb! - Carolyn Cruden

Posting on behalf of Bernard Curren: I will always remember her as an independent and self reliant creative spirit. She was fun, intelligent and caring. A great work mate and friend. In a twist on the meaning of her name and in homage to her writing genre I called her “my dark stranger”. Farewell dear friend. - Bernard Curran

I worked with Babette a few times - apart from being just a lovely human being who could laugh, make me laugh, and enjoy the day she was good to work with; an incisive mind who could see clear directions when developing the pathway to help others

I have wonderful memories of time spent with Barb. We had a lot of fun together. One of the nicest people I've had the honour to know.

Farewell to a lovely, kind, amazing and happy person. Although could have been a better ending for her! She was always willing to support and hel others. Will be missed by many. A Star and now at rest . Sympathy and thoughts for ftiends and family. Sylvia B ❤️❤️⭐️⭐️

Sending condolences to all of Barb’s family. It was such a privilege to know her. I’m sure memories of her indomitable spirit will stay with all who knew her.

Ian and I send condolences to Val on the loss of Barb (Babette). A truly remarkable individual who touched many lives and leaves a legacy of kindness behind.

My heart is aching for you Val. May all your wonderful memories of Barbra give you strength in this difficult time. Love from Leanne Logue xxxx

My thoughts are with you Val, and your family, as you live with all the memories you shared with Barbra. Some fun times some not so fun but loving times that will live forever. All my love.

Sending my loving sympathy to Val and her family. May your beautiful girl rest peacefully. Barb Thomas