A woman who dedicated more than four decades to rescuing animals and transforming the lives of thousands of neglected pets has died, aged 81.
Tributes have been paid following the death of Daphne Harris, whose tireless work with the RSPCA helped shape animal welfare across Kent and beyond.
Daphne Harris dedicated more than four decades to the RSPCA, helping transform animal welfare in Kent and leading the charity at both local and national level. Photo: RSPCA Tunbridge Wells & Maidstone Branch.
Mrs Harris, who lived in Headcorn, spent more than 40 years serving the charity, beginning as a volunteer in 1972 before becoming branch secretary six years later.
She went on to chair the RSPCA Tunbridge Wells & Maidstone Branch from 1988, leading it through decades of change while also serving as chairman of the RSPCA’s national governing council between 2008 and 2011, and again from 2015 to 2018.
Her vision led to the creation of the Headcorn Cattery, which opened in 2012, after years of fundraising and determination.
Before the rescue centre existed, she cared for rescued cats at her own home and garden, providing a safe refuge while campaigning for a permanent facility.
Since opening, the cattery has helped thousands of vulnerable animals receive veterinary treatment, rehabilitation and new homes.
Mrs Harris was recognised nationally for her commitment, first receiving the RSPCA Queen Victoria Silver Award for 40 years of service, before later being presented with the charity’s prestigious Queen Victoria Gold Award, an honour awarded to only a small number of people.
She is survived by her husband Dave, to whom she was married for 60 years, their three children, seven grandchildren, one great-grandchild and her rescue cat, Blue.
The Headcorn Cattery, opened in 2012 following years of fundraising and campaigning led by Daphne Harris, has helped thousands of rescued cats receive care and find new homes. Photo: RSPCA Tunbridge Wells & Maidstone Branch.
Paying tribute, Léonie Harrington, chair of the RSPCA Tunbridge Wells & Maidstone Branch, said: “Many in the local community have been left deeply saddened by the passing of Daphne Harris.
“To so many who knew her, Daphne was an incredible woman, a force of nature, and always a true champion for animals.
“She was warm, pragmatic, and fiercely committed to making the world a kinder place for every kind.”
She added: “Her legacy will live on in the community she served so faithfully and in the countless animal lives saved through her work.
“She will be dearly missed across the RSPCA family, and by all of us at her local branch, for whom she was the heart and soul.
“I know our branch will ensure she is never forgotten by continuing her lifetime of work for animals.”
