Averil Cameron|Dame Averil Cameron

It’s hard to believe we’re saying goodbye to Averil. Even at 86, it feels far too soon to lose someone who radiated such energy and intellectual curiosity. I knew her not just as the brilliant Dame Averil Cameron, the renowned historian of Late Antiquity and Byzantium, but as a wonderfully warm, funny, and fiercely loving aunt. I remember countless childhood afternoons spent in her book-lined study, not necessarily *discussing* history (though she always had time for that if you showed an interest!), but listening to her stories, often punctuated with a mischievous twinkle in her eye and a dry wit that could catch you off guard. She had a knack for making even the most complex ideas accessible, and a genuine delight in sharing her passions. Averil’s dedication to her work was legendary, of course. She truly *lived* within those historical periods, bringing them to life for her students and readers. But it wasn’t all dusty tomes and academic papers. She loved a good garden, and her roses were the envy of the neighbourhood. She was a surprisingly enthusiastic cook, though her experiments weren’t always successful – we all still laugh about the infamous paella incident! And she adored music, filling her home with everything from classical pieces to jazz. But above all, she cherished her family. She was a devoted sister, a loving aunt, and a proud great-aunt, always making time for us, celebrating our successes, and offering a comforting shoulder during difficult times. Her impact extended far beyond her family, though. As Warden of Keble College, she was a truly inspiring leader, known for her fairness, her dedication to her students, and her unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant intellectual community. She mentored so many young scholars, encouraging them to pursue their passions and to think critically about the world around them. She wasn’t just teaching history; she was shaping future generations. And she did it all with a quiet grace and a genuine humility that made her so beloved. We’ll miss her terribly – her sharp mind, her gentle spirit, and her infectious laugh. The world feels a little less bright without her in it. But her legacy will live on, not only in her groundbreaking scholarship, but in the countless lives she touched with her kindness, her wisdom, and her unwavering belief in the power of knowledge. She leaves behind a family who adored her, and a world that is undeniably richer for having had her in it.