We have been to the funeral today of this wonderful lady.
Known as Auntie Bessie to everyone, she was such a loved person. Together with her late husband Uncle Joss they welcomed all to their home. Unable to have children of their own, they welcomed every child into their home anytime of day or night. Willing to play hide & seek, card games, help out with homework or just a hug & a kiss & squeeze of hand.
She called them 'her treasures'
Both so good with our three children. On a school day they used to cycle up the farm road & leave their bikes at Auntie Bessie's before catching the school bus. At home time they would call in for a piece of cake & a drink before cycling home.
They both had a very strong faith & Inglewhite Congregational Church was packed for the celebration of her life.
Driving until October last year she was out & about all the time.
Her various nieces & nephews all told amusing stories of how many ovens she cleaned, how many times she babysat, how many times she was a shoulder to cry on... a very sad day for all.
My Cathy was pretty much the last person to see Auntie Bessie alive as she called in on her way home from work the night before she died... she's so glad she did!
They were so happy when Cathy & Garth got married as they were only the second couple after them who lived & married in the same church in Inglewhite as they did - they were two of 'her treasures'
Three good things:
1. A strong faith that knows she will be with her soulmate Joss & safe with her Lord.
2. Wonderful loving memories to make us smile.
3. A wonderful small community to live in where everyone knows & loves everyone else! Harry & I miss it now we have moved further away.
What beautiful memories of this lovely lady, Pat -- a character unique to a close rural community . She has a beautiful cheerful face with a twinkle in her eye . Memories like this will remain with you PAT !
Oh that's a beautiful photo and what a very special lady. We had some very special people in our lives as we grew up too and they are such a huge part of who we are......and so lovely to have as a model for how we interact with those around us!
I'm so sorry that you've lost a dear friend. I'm glad that we shared in her story and so many paid their respects and bid her farewell. Nice shot for the day. x
What a wonderful soul. The village will be a sadder and lesser place. I imagine she was delighted to see Cathy and how lovely that her treasures still looked in on her.
You are all so right, everyone should have an Auntie Bessie in their lives!
She will be much missed!
Thank you all for your lovely comments.