Eszter Nagy

1936-2022

Eszter Nagy sadly passed away on 3 February 2022. Her life was one of determination, endeavour and success, at times in exceedingly difficult circumstances.

She was born in Székesfehérvár, Hungary, in 1936. She met her future husband Louis (Lajos) while they were medical students in Budapest, where their studies were curtailed by the 1956 Hungarian uprising and Russian occupation. Forced to escape to Austria with only the clothes they were wearing, they arrived in England in December 1956.

In January 1957, with the help of families who had given them shelter, Eszter and Louis found jobs at, respectively, Bromley Hospital and Farnborough Hospital. They both studied English intensively and were able to pass the test in English language proficiency in early September 1957, a remarkable achievement.

It proved impractical to pursue their career in medicine and Eszter and Louis were advised to consider dentistry. While beginning their studies at the Dundee Dental School of St Andrews University in 1957, they married on 28 December that year at a small ceremony. Having both qualified, Eszter and Louis moved to Sevenoaks in Kent in 1961.

Eszter forged a dedicated and respected dental career, starting part-time in a Maidstone practice until January 1963. After taking time from work to raise their children - David, Agnes and Monika - Eszter took a one-year retraining course at Guy's Hospital Dental School in 1972.

She subsequently began work in the Kent Dental School Service, which was eventually re-structured as the Community Dental Service. Eszter was particularly interested in paediatric dentistry, skilfully treating children during school visits and at her Larkfield practice near Maidstone.

Her consummate organisational skills also saw her acting as Secretary for the West Kent Section (Southern Counties Branch) of the British Dental Association for 12 years. Eszter then became the Section representative to the Branch of the BDA and was co-opted as Vice-Chairman of the Branch. She also provided invaluable guidance and support for Louis during his very successful year as Southern Counties Branch President in 1992, as well as arranging presidential events and social outings.

In a richly fulfilled life, Eszter was highly creative, particularly with embroidery and dressmaking. She was also much appreciated as an expert cook and a brilliant host. A caring and dependable rock for her family and friends, Eszter was loved by everyone and will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

Agnes Nagy and Stuart Oakenfull