Recent years and an extraordinary legacy
As Kate grew older, she gradually reduced the number of dogs in her care. In 1976, she had 34, and a year later, as recommended by her doctors, she had 19.
She set up a trust fund to care for her animals after her death.
After suffering strokes, she moved into Kingsclear Nursing Home. The last seven dogs were placed in a breeding kennel, and their future was secured thanks to a fund she established.
Kate Ward died on August 4, 1979 at the age of 84.
By the end of her life, she had saved over 600 dogs.
Local vet Geoffrey Craddock said after her death:
“Camberley has lost its most famous and cherished figure. She will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.”
Kate was buried at St. Michael’s Church in Camberley, and a stone sculpture of a dog still guards her grave today.
In 2000, the retirement housing complex was named Katherine Court in her honor.
The most important facts
- Born: June 13, 1895
- Died: August 4, 1979
- Over the course of 36 years, she has saved over 600 dogs.
- For many years she lived at 218 London Road in Yorktown.
- She was known as “Camberley Kate.”
Kate Ward’s legacy isn’t tied to a statue or monument. It’s the power that even a single person, equipped with switches, can change the fate of hundreds of lives.
Inaccessible, unorganized, or with extensive facilities. All he had was a small house, a wooden cart, and the knowledge that every life was at risk.
She saved over 600 dogs because she never looked away from danger. She showed that true heroism doesn’t always make headlines. Sometimes it takes the form of a woman being escorted by dogs on a wooden cart, where no one else is transporting them.
Kate Ward (1895–1979)
“Only in his memory… most important.”
Over 600 lives saved.
One woman. One wooden cart. One huge heart.
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