The close-knit community of Invergowrie, a village nestled within Perth and Kinross, is deeply saddened by the passing of Rona Anderson, a remarkable local artist and long-time resident. Rona, who dedicated an impressive four decades of her professional life to a prominent Dundee-based publishing house, passed away peacefully at Ninewells Hospital on September 18, aged 71. Her family has described her as a truly unique individual whose absence will be profoundly felt by all who knew her.
Known for her vibrant and meticulous work as a colourist, Rona contributed to a vast array of publications, ranging from daily newspapers to cherished children’s comics. Her artistic touch brought life and colour to countless pages, leaving an indelible mark on generations of readers. Beyond her commercial work, Rona was also a prolific artist in her own right, creating numerous pieces that are treasured by local families, including works proudly displayed within Ninewells Hospital, serving as a testament to her talent and generosity. A Life Rooted in Invergowrie
Born at West Pilmore Farm, situated between Invergowrie and Longforgan, Rona’s roots ran deep in the Perth and Kinross landscape. Her early years were spent exploring the rural beauty of the area, a setting that undoubtedly shaped her artistic sensibilities. At just six months old, her family relocated to Invergowrie village, where she would reside throughout her entire life. Fond memories of childhood holidays and excursions with her parents, Bert and Mamie Anderson, and brothers, Bernard and Brian, to the scenic north of Scotland and the lively annual Angus shows, were often recounted by Rona.
During her schooling in Invergowrie, Rona’s exceptional aptitude for art and her prowess in sports, particularly running and hockey, shone brightly. A rediscovered reference letter from her headmaster, dating back to January 1969, lauded her as the top art student in her class and the junior girls’ sports champion. This early recognition of her diverse talents paved the way for her illustrious career. A Career in Colour at Dundee’s Publishing Giant
Rona embarked on her professional journey with the Dundee-based publishing giant on April 7, 1969, initially joining as an office junior. Her innate artistic flair quickly led her to the Bank Street art department in the early 1970s, where she honed her skills as a re-toucher. In this role, she meticulously prepared images for the pages of esteemed local newspapers like The Courier and Evening Telegraph, as well as popular weeklies such as the People’s Journal and Weekly News.
By the late 1970s, Rona’s artistic path led her to the main art studio at Meadowside, where she transitioned into the specialized role of a colourist. This position saw her bringing iconic characters to life within the pages of beloved girls’ comics such as Bunty, Judy, and Mandy. Her vibrant palette also graced the adventures of characters in the universally adored comics, The Beano and The Dandy. At a time when all colouring was painstakingly done by hand using intricate dyes and inks, Rona’s dedication and skill were paramount. As technology advanced, and the art department embraced digital methods, Rona seamlessly adapted, showcasing her versatility and commitment to her craft until her retirement in 2009, after an impressive 40 years of service. A Pillar of the Community and Enduring Legacy
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Rona was a familiar and cherished figure within Invergowrie. Her strong bond with her mother was well-known, as she was often seen making the short daily walk between their homes. The profound loss of her mother during the challenging period of the Covid-19 pandemic took a heavy toll on Rona, and her own health began to decline thereafter.
Up until recently, Rona’s warm smile and friendly demeanour were a common sight in the village, as she frequently engaged in conversations with neighbours and fellow bus passengers en route to Dundee. She possessed an abiding passion for gardening and plants, with her meticulously kept gardens being a source of immense pride. Her extensive knowledge in horticulture was freely shared, bringing joy to many.
In her later years, Rona found pleasure in watching popular television dramas and films, and in the quiet challenge of solving crosswords. Her spirit of creativity continues to resonate, particularly with her great-niece, who has inherited Rona’s love for drawing. The family holds a hopeful wish that this young artist will carry forward Rona’s remarkable artistic talent.
Rona Anderson is survived by her devoted brothers, Bernard and Brian, her sisters-in-law, Heather and Margaret, and her nephews, Scott, David, Andrew, Allan, and Lee. She is also remembered fondly by her many great-nieces and great-nephews. Her funeral service will take place at Longforgan Church on Wednesday, October 8, at 11 am, where friends, family, and community members will gather to pay their final respects to a truly unforgettable individual.
Known for her vibrant and meticulous work as a colourist, Rona contributed to a vast array of publications, ranging from daily newspapers to cherished children’s comics. Her artistic touch brought life and colour to countless pages, leaving an indelible mark on generations of readers. Beyond her commercial work, Rona was also a prolific artist in her own right, creating numerous pieces that are treasured by local families, including works proudly displayed within Ninewells Hospital, serving as a testament to her talent and generosity. A Life Rooted in Invergowrie
Born at West Pilmore Farm, situated between Invergowrie and Longforgan, Rona’s roots ran deep in the Perth and Kinross landscape. Her early years were spent exploring the rural beauty of the area, a setting that undoubtedly shaped her artistic sensibilities. At just six months old, her family relocated to Invergowrie village, where she would reside throughout her entire life. Fond memories of childhood holidays and excursions with her parents, Bert and Mamie Anderson, and brothers, Bernard and Brian, to the scenic north of Scotland and the lively annual Angus shows, were often recounted by Rona.
During her schooling in Invergowrie, Rona’s exceptional aptitude for art and her prowess in sports, particularly running and hockey, shone brightly. A rediscovered reference letter from her headmaster, dating back to January 1969, lauded her as the top art student in her class and the junior girls’ sports champion. This early recognition of her diverse talents paved the way for her illustrious career. A Career in Colour at Dundee’s Publishing Giant
Rona embarked on her professional journey with the Dundee-based publishing giant on April 7, 1969, initially joining as an office junior. Her innate artistic flair quickly led her to the Bank Street art department in the early 1970s, where she honed her skills as a re-toucher. In this role, she meticulously prepared images for the pages of esteemed local newspapers like The Courier and Evening Telegraph, as well as popular weeklies such as the People’s Journal and Weekly News.
By the late 1970s, Rona’s artistic path led her to the main art studio at Meadowside, where she transitioned into the specialized role of a colourist. This position saw her bringing iconic characters to life within the pages of beloved girls’ comics such as Bunty, Judy, and Mandy. Her vibrant palette also graced the adventures of characters in the universally adored comics, The Beano and The Dandy. At a time when all colouring was painstakingly done by hand using intricate dyes and inks, Rona’s dedication and skill were paramount. As technology advanced, and the art department embraced digital methods, Rona seamlessly adapted, showcasing her versatility and commitment to her craft until her retirement in 2009, after an impressive 40 years of service. A Pillar of the Community and Enduring Legacy
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Rona was a familiar and cherished figure within Invergowrie. Her strong bond with her mother was well-known, as she was often seen making the short daily walk between their homes. The profound loss of her mother during the challenging period of the Covid-19 pandemic took a heavy toll on Rona, and her own health began to decline thereafter.
Up until recently, Rona’s warm smile and friendly demeanour were a common sight in the village, as she frequently engaged in conversations with neighbours and fellow bus passengers en route to Dundee. She possessed an abiding passion for gardening and plants, with her meticulously kept gardens being a source of immense pride. Her extensive knowledge in horticulture was freely shared, bringing joy to many.
In her later years, Rona found pleasure in watching popular television dramas and films, and in the quiet challenge of solving crosswords. Her spirit of creativity continues to resonate, particularly with her great-niece, who has inherited Rona’s love for drawing. The family holds a hopeful wish that this young artist will carry forward Rona’s remarkable artistic talent.
Rona Anderson is survived by her devoted brothers, Bernard and Brian, her sisters-in-law, Heather and Margaret, and her nephews, Scott, David, Andrew, Allan, and Lee. She is also remembered fondly by her many great-nieces and great-nephews. Her funeral service will take place at Longforgan Church on Wednesday, October 8, at 11 am, where friends, family, and community members will gather to pay their final respects to a truly unforgettable individual.