Mrs Julia Campion died on 9 November 2007 after a short illness, at the age of 68. Julia had been Administrator of the Commonwealth Dental Association (CDA) since 1994, although she was involved with the Association from its inception in 1990.

Julia married David Campion in 1964 and they have one son, Christopher. Whilst she was not from a dental family, David's father was a dental surgeon and both his grandfather and great-grandfather served as Presidents of the BDA. So, Julia was especially proud to have been recognised by the BDA for her work, with the award of entry onto their Roll of Distinction, in the summer of 2007. Unfortunately she died a few days before the ceremony where she was to receive her medal and the citation, so David collected it on her behalf.

Julia was in charge of the day-to-day running of the CDA. She organised and participated in all CDA meetings, workshops and seminars in various Commonwealth countries. Designing the CDA's twice-yearly journal (the Bulletin) was her special challenge. Julia was absolutely fastidious with her attendance at meetings – many were long and tedious. In particular, she will be remembered for the active role she played in ensuring the participation of CDA observers at the annual Commonwealth Health Ministers Meeting (CHMM) in Geneva.

Julia spearheaded CDA's collaboration with the FDI World Dental Federation, the World Health Organisation and other partners. She participated actively in the organisation of joint collaborative activities during the Commonwealth People's Forum which preceded the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings (CHOGM) in Malta (2005) and in Uganda (2007). Unfortunately, she died just before she was due to travel to Uganda.

To all those involved with dentistry internationally, Julia was a vital figure, bringing extraordinary energy and enthusiasm to her work. She was a 'people person' – treating everybody as equals.

A true lady, Julia will be very sadly missed for a long time to come. The CDA extends our condolences to David and Chris.