After a first hand experience battling and beating the disease more than 12 years ago, Marie became an integral part of the Inverell Breast Cancer Support Group.

Sadly, Marie recently lost her third battle to cancer. Her legacy assisting women battling cancer and work behind the scenes will be carried on for years to come by members of the support group.

President and dear friend Trish Keightley said Marie was an amazing support to so many breast cancer sufferers and to anybody needing a sympathetic ear.

"She quietly worked behind the scenes ringing people to check if they were okay and always had the kettle ready for anyone that popped in for help or advice.

"She had first hand experience as she battled the terrible disease herself on two occasions and although she has been ill for the last few weeks we were all surprised that it was cancer that got her in the end."

Marie was always the first to offer help on Pink Ribbon Day, staying from start to finish. She would make craft items, homemade sweets and anything in between.

Her absence will leave a hole in the organisation and in the hearts of everyone who was lucky enough to meet and become close to Marie.

Friends and family are invited to the Anglican Church on Friday from 11am to say farewell. Marie touched the lives of so many within the Inverell community.

"Marie was a very down to earth person that people could relate to; no one was judged. She was just very special and had a way with touching peoples lives, just a phone call from Marie could help so much.

"I knew she was special, but in the past few days I've heard so many stories about Marie, I didn't realise how much she did behind the scenes."

Trish said Marie was like a "mother figure" to her after being diagnosed with breast cancer around the same time.

"One phone call and we became close friends and have been right through. It's certainly going to be hard without her around but I feel like we need to do our best because that's what she would have wanted."