Yesterday I had a lengthy telephone conversation with Emily and Alice who are compiling not only a slideshow of their father, but also an extensive eulogy calling upon a wide array of memories, both from their own lifetimes and from Michael’s earlier days. Their recollections of my house in Sigoules had me searching for this image of us all seated on the steps of No 6, rue Saint Jacques in the summer of 2009. I found it in Elizabeth’s collection ‘Derrick Through The Ages’, produced for my 70th birthday party. This lovely photograph is one of hers.
Looked on by Alice, Oliver caresses PO, the dog from a neighbouring farm adopted by the children. Alice sits on the other side of her Dad.
Otherwise today I preserved my energy for tomorrow’s funeral. Elizabeth, who will be driving me to Oxsted in the morning, made a brief visit to find out how I was.
Later, Jackie and I dined on Hordle Chinese Take Away’s excellent fare.
The good times spent together can never be taken away <3
Quite so, Rosaliene. Thank you very much
A beautiful memory, and my sincere condolences Derrick.. Sorry to come back to WP to see you have suffered a bereavement.. Hugs
Thanks very much, Sue
<3 and hugs, especially for tomorrow.
Very many thanks, Donna
Another lovely photo Derrick, will be thinking about you, Michael and the rest of your family tomorrow x
Thank you so much, June. That is comforting
I hope it goes smoothly tomorrow. As well as it can do. Take care.
Very many thanks, Jessica
I’ll be thinking of you all, Derick.
Many thanks, Marina. Much appreciated
My thoughts will of course stay with you and Jackie, Michael and the rest of the family tomorrow Derrick. I’m sure the gathering will be both painfilled and beautiful. I hope it will bring you some solace. xo
Very many thanks, Pauline. Appreciated as always. XX
You and your family are in my thoughts.
Very many thanks, Becky
I am so very sorry for you and your family Derrick. My thoughts and prayers are flying to you all.
Very many thanks and much appreciation, Cindy
Great photos and more memories to cherish
Thanks a lot, Gary
We’ll be thinking of you all. Take care.
Much appreciated, Susan. With thanks
Derek and I will be thinking of you and your family tomorrow. ❤️
Very many thanks, Jill. Greatly appreciated
My prayers are with you and your family.
Thank you very much, Rupali
Will be thinking of you tomorrow Derrick.
Many thanks, Quercus. Much appreciated
I wish I could offer more.
I’m sure
Sounds like the girls have done a wonderful job Derrick….
I’m sure they have, Ivor. Thanks very much
The funeral will be over by the time you read my comment, but the wonderful memories surrounding his life and loss will go on. My thoughts are with you and all the family.
Very many thanks, Gwen
“So long as men can breathe and eyes can see, so long lives this and this gives life to thee”
Thank yo very much, Mary
Michael looks so youthful! Tomorrow will be a hard day for you. I will be thinking of you and your family.
Very many thanks and much appreciation, Laurie
Thinking of you all.
x
Thank you very much, Melanie X
<3 <3 <3 Will be thinking of you and praying for you and your family.
Much appreciated, M.B.
You continue to be in my thoughts and prayers, Derrick. Your whole family, too.
I will especially have you all on my mind and in my heart tomorrow.
The girls have done something so special…and it will truly be a day to celebrate Michael and his life.
(((HUGS))) and <3 , too.
This is much appreciated, Carolyn X
I’m glad you have so many good memories. Thinking of all you and sending hugs. <3
Thank you very much, Merril X
I hope the funeral and family provide comfort. I’ll be thinking about you.
With thanks and appreciation, Lisa
A lovely sunny photo, Derrick. You will be in my thoughts tomorrow. Strength to you and Jackie and the rest of your family.
Much appreciated, Sylvia. Thank you
May the love of family and friends and the joy of shared memories see you through this difficult day, Derrick. I pray you have the faith to believe this is not “all there is,” and we will see our loved ones again in Eternity.
Thanks very much, Jan
Good memories of your family Derrick. Nice!
Thank you very much, Arlene
All the laughs and good times can never be forgotten.
So true, Sherry. Thank you very much
I can only echo what everyone has said above and remind you we will always be here for you.
Very many thanks, Alex. That is very clear
It is so wonderful that your family is close and can help each other get through the worst of times.
Thank you very much GP
Thinking of you and your family, especially so, today.
Thank you very much, Cheryl
You, Jackie and the family are in my thoughts and prayers, Derrick. It is wonderful you have family that is close and can help each other.
Very many thanks, Lavinia. That picture appeared on the daughters’ slide show
I am sure the funeral was a meaningful and beautiful celebration of Michael’s life. Many tears and later a few smiles. He will remain in your hearts forever. This evening my thoughts are with you. .
You are quite right about the funeral, Sue. Thank you very much
May you all have had time together to grieve and smile and cry, and celebrate. Bon Voyage, Michael.
A lovely comment, Widders, for which I thank you
What a wonderful family photo. I think that one needs to go into a frame, and not back into the archives as it radiates happiness/joy.
Very many thanks, msw.