The power of a life well lived: The story of Marion Wiles’ life and the legacy she left

Marion (BA Geography 1953) had an enquiring mind which she applied to every aspect of her life, from teaching and charity work, to gardening and travel. She is remembered as a kind, thoughtful and giving friend whose fierce independence took her around the world, and touched so many lives. We take a look back at Marion’s life, and the impact her generous legacy gift to the University’s Department of Geography will have for the next generation.

Marion graduated from the University of Sheffield in 1953 with a degree in Geography – and many life-long friends. She went on to train as a Geography teacher herself, teaching in Grammar schools for the next 12 years. In 1965, Marion returned to her hometown
of Welwyn Garden City and a new adventure: teaching at Tewin Water school for
deaf children. 

Marion devoted her life to teaching children with hearing impairments. She went on to gain a diploma in this specialist subject from London University in 1968 – and later a master’s degree in Educational Audiology from Manchester University. 

Marion’s love for geography, particularly field trips, meant that the children in her classes also enjoyed lessons in outdoor activities like swimming and sailing.

Funding life-changing experiences

In her retirement, Marion was a keen traveller – visiting the USA, New Zealand, Australia, Canada, South Africa, Egypt, and Kenya – not to mention a dedicated gardener, needleworker and cook. She loved where she lived, and brought so much to those around her. She is remembered as a generous, active supporter of many local charities and organisations, from the Guides to Welwyn Garden City Horticultural Society and Saint Francis church.

Though she passed away at the age of 91, Marion is still giving back thanks to her gift of £180,000 to the University of Sheffield’s Geography department. With this kind donation, the department is now funding those all-important field trips.

Professor Matt Watson, Head of the Department of Geography, said: “We feel that this is a fitting tribute to Marion which will directly benefit students in a way she would have appreciated.”

By leaving this legacy in her Will, Marion has helped masters students from low-income backgrounds access opportunities that inspire a new level of learning. 

“There’s no better way to learn about field work than to experience it yourself,” explains Rachael (MA, International Development). “Although challenging at times, it was a very rewarding experience and I loved every minute of it. I now feel more prepared to carry out my dissertation.”

And these experiences don’t just support study. They enrich students’ understanding of the world, as Shahreen (MA, International Development) explains: 

“The field class in Tanzania provided the incredible opportunity to bring case studies we had always read about in books and lectures to life through hands-on fieldwork. I was able to learn about issues in water, health and sanitation through the voices of local people. Conducting research in the rich and vibrant culture of Tanzania was an unforgettable experience.” After learning about Marion, her life and her love of geography, we can’t think of a better memorial.