Wendy Richard, the versatile English actress, passed away on 26 February 2009 at the age of 65. A staple of British television for over 40 years, Richard was best known for her work as Pauline Fowler in the long-running BBC soap opera EastEnders. She also starred in Are You Being Served, in which she played Mrs Slocombe for over 20 years, as well as in the ITV1 sitcom Grace and Favour. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 1995, Richard dedicated her life to raising awareness of the disease, as well as to raising funds for research and treatment programs. Richard's career also included an extensive list of stage credits, television guest spots, radio recordings and voice-over roles for various documentaries. She was awarded the MBE in 2000 for her services to charity. She will be remembered for her diverse work, but above all, for her courage in the face of her illness.