Heather Whittaker, 96, passed away on November 26 after a short illness.

It was in 1944 that Mrs Whittaker joined the Women's Auxiliary Australian Air Force for two years of service, which included making parachutes among other duties.

She was a much-loved member of Leeton shire and was known for her years of service to all kinds of groups.

Some of these included the Leeton RSL Sub-branch and Women's Auxiliary for more than four decades, as well as more than 70 years with the Murrami Country Women's Association.

That's not to mention assisting Legacy, War Widows, helping out at St Peter's Anglican Church in a variety of different ways, including cleaning the place of worship, volunteering at its op shop, being part of the women's fellowship group and the helping out at the church's annual fete.

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Mrs Whittaker's grand daughter - Robyn Whittaker - said she would miss so much about her grandma.

"There's a gaping hole in Leeton's heart now that she has passed," Robyn said.

"I have so many memories of grandma as a child growing up and into adulthood.

"My favourite memory is dancing with her at Parliament House in Canberra (in 2019) when she honoured at a special event for women united by defence service.

"I'll miss her lemon butter as well.

"She was famous for that in Leeton, as well as her little green car. Everyone knew her green car."

Mrs Whittaker continued to be active in the community, still volunteering her time and legendary cooking skills for many groups right up until around five weeks before she passed away.

A "farm girl" at heart after living at Murrami for many years, Mrs Whittaker was the wife of the late Jim Whittaker, who passed away in 2000.

She was the loved mother and mother-in-law of Alan, Ron and Jan, Philip, Bruce and Joy, Jan (deceased) and Patrick, Lynne and Beverlee.

Mrs Whittaker was also a cherished grandma to her many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Father Robert Murphy from the St Peter's Anglican Church said he held many fond memories of Mrs Whittaker, saying it had been a pleasure to get to know her and call her his friend.

"She hated the spotlight and the attention she received in recent years for her hard work," Fr Robert said.

"She was always busy doing something, she was never at home.

"We will definitely miss her, but we are very grateful to have known her."

Mrs Whittaker was farewelled by her friends and family in a service at Leeton on December 3.

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