A doctor, who was instrumental in creating the Chineham Medical Practice, has passed away.

Dr Elizabeth Williams was one of the three Williams doctors prominent in the early days of the Practice.

Sadly, Dr Liz, as she was affectionately known as, died at St Michael's Hospice on April 13, Tuesday. She was 66.

Her death came as a shock for her family and many Chineham residents who remember Dr Liz as a friend, more than a doctor.

Paying tributes, Denise Andrews wrote on her obituary page on The Gazette: “Such sad news. You were not just our doctor but a friend.

“You were a very special lady always had time for everyone. You had been our doctor over five generations of our family for approximately 45 years.

“You will be sadly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing you. You are now out of pain Dear Liz. RIP special lady. Much Love from The Andrews & Burgess families.”

Remembering the doctor, Tracy Parratt wrote: “Dr Elizabeth was the best doctor in the world.

“She became a family friend. She was a lovely caring and special lady. Was so glad to see her again at gillies. God Bless to All the family. Tracy Parratt & Joyce Crawley.”

Fiona Biermann, the Gazette’s community correspondent for Chineham, described Dr Liz’s death a sad loss in so many ways.

“Whilst my mother was pregnant with me, she had a nasty fall and Dr Liz took care of her. She also went to the hospital after my birth to check that all was well with us both.

“A sad loss in so many ways. Condolences to her family.”

Dr Liz’s funeral will take place at Christchurch Chineham on May 18, Tuesday. It will be a private service due to current restrictions.

If you wish to make any donations, you can support Smile Charity Uganda, a charity that Liz felt a particularly strong connection with. It combines educating young people with spreading the word of God in Uganda. She also had great relationships with the charity's leaders.