Some may be more well known than others, but all had a place in someone’s heart and in our communities.
Here we make space to recognise those whose deaths have been announced in the pages of the Derbyshire Times this week.
For more details on how they will be remembered, including funeral arrangements, and how to leave your own tributes, go to legacy.com/uk/obituaries/derbyshiretimes-uk/browse.
1. Mick Cooper, Brampton
Born in Chesterfield and a lifelong local resident, Mick passed away at the age of 82. A well-known neighbourhood figure – known to many as Mr Blobby - he was the long-time secretary of the Brampton Darts and Dominoes League, leading its charitable works. He was also a keen cyclist, who toured the country as a young man, rode with Derbyshire Cycling Club and was elected to the Cape Wrath Fellowship after completing the famous Highland coastal route. He loved socialising, enjoyed seaside holidays, and in later years took up photography. Mick leaves his sisters June and Pat, nieces and nephews, wider family and good friends. Read more at https://tinyurl.com/MickCooper. Photo: Contributed
2. James Hardy, Whittington Moor
Born in Chesterfield and a lifelong local resident, James passed away at home, aged 81. His career included spells at Markham Works, and as a hospital porter at the original Chesterfield Royal and Scarsdale hospitals. He retired as caretaker of Westfield Infant School. Away from work, he enjoyed steam trains, modelling the Great Western Railway and the music of André Rieu. He was also a lifelong Chesterfield FC supporter and follower of Liverpool FC. James leaves his wife Sheila, daughters Jacqueline and Michelle, five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and his dog Harry. Read more at https://tinyurl.com/JamesHardy2026. Photo: Contributed
3. Anita Cronin, Hillstown
Born in Chesterfield and a lifelong local resident, Anita passed away at Chesterfield Royal Hospital, aged 70. Having trained and performed with the Brenda Blakesley School of Dance (now Academy of Dance), she founded her own ACC School of Dance in 1980 and led it as principal until 2003. For the final decade of her career she was a teaching assistant at Tibshelf Community School. Away from the classroom, she enjoyed cooking, theatre, raising her family and holidays in their caravan in Scotland. Anita leaves her husband Chris, sons Andrew and Richard, daughters-in-law Natasha and Sharon, and grandson Joshua. Read more at https://tinyurl.com/AnitaCronin. Photo: Contributed
4. David King, Chesterfield
Born in Scarcliffe and a lifelong local resident, David passed away at Chesterfield Royal Hospital, aged 82. His early work as a coalminer earned him the office of NUM branch secretary at Ireland Colliery. When the pits closed, he saw out his career as a caretaker. He maintained a lifelong interest in politics and socialism, and for relaxation turned to holidays and long walks. He took pride in dressing well and loved to spend time with his family. David leaves his children Dawn and Neil, and grandchildren Lisa, Toni, Reagan and Erin. Read more at https://tinyurl.com/DavidKing2026. Photo: Contributed