The 77-year-old woman who died at Elm Park recently was a former post mistress who played an active role in the community, it has been revealed.

Maya Devi was found with head injuries at her home in Cowdray Way on Tuesday (May 2) and pronounced dead at the scene.

Her husband, Tarsame Singh, 79, appeared in custody at Barkingside Magistrates’ Court yesterday (Thursday, May 4) charged with her murder.

It has now been reported by the MailOnline that Maya Devi worked as a postmistress at the Rainham Post office with her husband before retiring a few years ago.

She was also “a regular” at the Havering Asian Social and Welfare Association (HASWA) community centre.

In the story published yesterday, HASWA outreach worker Nirmala Leal recalled that close friend Maya Devi was a “a lovely lady” and was “really warm-hearted”.

She said: “She loved singing as much as yoga and had a smile for everyone.

“I can't believe this has happened and that she has gone. I saw her just a few hours before her death, it doesn't seem real that I won't see her again.”

Maya Devi and her husband were reportedly among the organisers of the community centre’s recent Vaisakhi celebrations.

HASWA project development officer Manjit Singh spoke of his shock, saying there was never any mention of any unhappiness or unpleasantness at the couple's home.

He added: “This has really left us all numb because Maya was the gentlest, kindest and most wonderful lady.”

Neighbour Kartar Singh Panesar said he had never once seen or heard them argue.

The couple had moved to the UK from India about 50 years ago, he said.

“They have a son and two daughters, who are all devastated. We all are”, he added.