Every third day, in our #EveryThreeDays campaign, I write about a woman killed by a man. Previously in this campaign, which started on 2nd May 2021, I have remembered 84 women – the last being Anne Searle.
Today I remember Marjorie Elphick, who was murdered by her husband Edgar.
A retired scientist who murdered his partner in a row over a duvet has been jailed for life, police said. Edgar Fairhurst, 74, will serve a minimum of 20 years in jail after being convicted of murdering Marjorie Elphick, 83.
Marjorie’s body was discovered at the home she shared with Fairhurst in Bideford, Devon, on 30 December 2015. The couple had been together for about 40 years, and during an argument, Fairhurst attacked his partner with a hammer, inflicting fatal injuries.
Fairhurst had admitted manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility but denied murder. He was convicted by a jury following a four-day trial at Exeter crown court and jailed for life by the judge, Mr Justice Teare.
DI Sharon Donald, who led the investigation, said: “Marjorie Elphick was an independent, active lady that was dearly loved by her son, niece, relatives and friends. In the early hours of 30 December, Marjorie was subjected to an unprovoked, violent and sustained attack in her own bed, the perpetrator being her partner of 40 years, Edgar Fairhurst. Tragically, Marjorie’s injuries proved fatal, and she died at the scene.
“Today justice has been served. I would like to thank the local officers and investigation team for their commitment and professionalism during this case, and reiterate my deepest condolences to Marjorie’s family and loved ones for their tragic loss.”
In a statement released by Devon and Cornwall police, the victim’s family said: “Marjorie Elphick was a kind and vivacious woman. We have been devastated by her loss as she was not only a vibrant member of her community and valued by her many friends but was someone who meant a great deal to the four generations of our small family. Although she was 83, she was a healthy, active person with the promise of many more full years in front of her. This life has been cruelly cut short, and it will be very difficult for our family to envisage life without her.”
Marjorie Elphick
#EveryThreeDays
