The funeral today of 24 year old Josh who was knocked down by a London bus almost a month ago.
I have never been to a more moving funeral. Between 6 & 7 hundred folk there of all ages.
For a small hamlet of 16 houses it was a major event.
Our local church for 32 years of our lives & where Cathy & Garth were married.
Josh comes from a large family here & two siblings in NZ. The youngest of four. They all spoke about Josh. Dad spoke for half an hour…I don’t know how Bill did it. The speeches were funny too.
Three vicars from home, Dundee & London the places Josh had lived & died.
They all have such a strong faith too which has helped them plus a great community in the farming world.
The singing was just wonderful.
A lone piper played in the graveyard.
It was a privilege be there.
Oh & it’s my birthday today! Thank you for all your FB messages!
Happy birthday, lovely lady.
Gosh, I remember this happening......what a long wait for the funeral! I am glad it went as well as it good, though my heart aches for everyone who loved him. Wonderful that their faith and community is sustaining them. Deepest love with you all.
Lovely memorial collage, Pat! So good that the family's faith is carrying them through their time of grief, as well as having a supportive community! On a happier note, trusting you are having a very blessed and happy birthday, despite attending a funeral. May the Lord bless you with many more happy years!
that's a moving and emotional narrative pat and a beautiful montage . the power of photography and words together.
I was going to wish you happy birthday here rather than on FB . Despite your emotional day , I wish you a happy birthday , thank you for your 365 friendship and longevity of our virtual friendship here ...we joined 365 at the same time , so I appreciate all the highs and lows we've experienced on here . That's it Pat , take care , Phil x
A wonderful collage and heart-breaking for all. Such a wonderful send off.
I view of the day , may still wish you a Happy Birthday - another year to be greatful for !
@phil_howcroft Thank you Phil for your kind words! All you say is true…… we are 365 buddies from the same time. I feel I know you & your family quite well! Here’s to many more years on 365! Xx
Oh, my, goodness, Pat, such a tragic accident to happen. But what a lovely tribute to Josh. I can 'hear' the emotion in your text. I can't think of anything sadder than losing a 24-year old son who had so much more living to do. x
Cathy & I spoke about it today. They were there helping until 7pm. The family had ordered pizzas for the family that remained. It was such a glorious day & evening & in a very quiet countryside church where they could sit out with Josh. He is just across from his Grandad Bill & lots of aunties & uncles.
Thank you all again for caring.
Gosh, I remember this happening......what a long wait for the funeral! I am glad it went as well as it good, though my heart aches for everyone who loved him. Wonderful that their faith and community is sustaining them. Deepest love with you all.
Happy birthday once again.. have a wonderful day/week..
Wishing you a wonderful happy birthday weekend. Enjoy yourself
I hope you get to celebrate your birthday by catching up with friends and family.
I was going to wish you happy birthday here rather than on FB . Despite your emotional day , I wish you a happy birthday , thank you for your 365 friendship and longevity of our virtual friendship here ...we joined 365 at the same time , so I appreciate all the highs and lows we've experienced on here . That's it Pat , take care , Phil x
I view of the day , may still wish you a Happy Birthday - another year to be greatful for !
Thank you all for your beautiful comments! Pretty tired tonight so I haven’t looked at your posts but hope to catch up over the weekend.
I know something….family is so very important in this life….always keep them close no matter what! Xxxxxx😍
Happy Birthday to you Pat, hope the sad event didn’t cast too much of a shadow.
Hope you manage to have a happy birthday after all the sadness.
Cathy & I spoke about it today. They were there helping until 7pm. The family had ordered pizzas for the family that remained. It was such a glorious day & evening & in a very quiet countryside church where they could sit out with Josh. He is just across from his Grandad Bill & lots of aunties & uncles.
Thank you all again for caring.