1926−2019

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Pamela Le Couteur qualified in dentistry from Melbourne University, Australia in 1948. With her husband Boyce, she developed an innovative combined rural general dental and medical practice in Port Fairy, Victoria. As the first female dentist in the area, Pamela was aware that she had to gain the confidence of the community. She quickly became the favoured dentist for children, and continued to champion their needs throughout her career.

Emigrating to England in 1960, Pamela was initially employed in the school dental service based at Farnborough. Wishing to keep up-to-date in paediatric dentistry and public health, she joined the International Association of Dentistry for Children and contacted Professor Winter at the Eastman Dental Hospital, organising a week's refresher course every year. This was typical of Pamela; years ahead of her time in continuing professional development. In 1978 she became a member of the executive committee for the British Society of Dentistry for the Handicapped.

Having completed her Diploma in Dental Public Health, Pamela became assistant Area Dental Officer for Community Dental Services, initially in Berkshire and then in Hillingdon Dental Health Authority.

Pamela was a founding member of the Hampshire branch of the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry. As an active, effective and conscientious member of the Society at both branch and national level, she contributed to its development. From 1984 to 1991, Pamela was a member of the Executive Committee, holding posts including National Honorary Treasurer (1984-87), before becoming the first member of the Community Dental Service to be appointed President (1989-90).

For nearly 30 years following her retirement, Pamela continued to support paediatric dentistry while pursuing her interests in the arts and sciences. In 1991, she trained as part of the first contingent of volunteer guides at Kew Gardens, where she was also a patron and an enthusiastic supporter of the scientific work.

Throughout her long and active adult life Pamela was a powerful support and advocate for her family and friends, and for the careers of the many colleagues she felt privileged to work alongside.

She died of complications after emergency abdominal surgery, on 29 December 2019. She is survived by her two daughters, both doctors, and five grandchildren.

J. J. Murray, A. Le Couteur, C. Le Couteur