Anne Mackay, who died recently, was born in Helmsdale in February 1941 and had a younger brother, Jim.

When Anne was five the family moved to Glasgow, where Anne trained as a primary school teacher, but the connection with the north east was kept up and all holidays were spent in Golspie.

The attraction to Golspie continued even after Anne married Angus MacDonald, a Glasgow man. The couple and their two children, Alison and Ewen, visited the village at all holiday times.

When Angus retired in 1997, the family moved there permanently.

When he died in 2002, Anne stayed on in Golspie and she married Donald Mackay in 2005.

Anne was very active in her Christian life - locally, nationally and particularly internationally in her service to and for missionaries. Wherever there was a need of help, Anne was quick to notice and act.

Her service to the "Women for Mission" (WFM) went far beyond her duties as Secretary and Treasurer. She played a prominent part in the production of the Free Church Cook Book which up until now has raised over £90,000 for foreign missions.

Her input into the local Free Church in Golspie was invaluable. Not only was she treasurer but she organised many of the church activities. She was kind and helpful in all situations - a friend to all, being particularly helpful to those in need.

She was a reader in the Davy Duff services, auditor for local charity accounts, and a member of the Scrabble Club, but her input into local situations where there was genuine need remained private and unsung.

Her final illness was borne uncomplainingly which displayed an inner strength which could only have come from her Lord.

Our sympathy and prayers are with Donald, Alison, Ewen and family - Kenny MacDonald.