Tag: funeral

Unforgettable

Today we tuned into BBC’s broadcast of the memorably, monumentally, reverential funeral service, bearing some of her own touches; and subsequent procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II through the central London streets I know so well yet have never before experienced, albeit through the television screen, conveying such awesome silence but for the steady drumbeat timing the respectful, restrained, marching of so many dignitaries and others moving in measured unison; every individual participant and assembled group – such as the phalanx of naval personnel in unwavering blocks who replaced the horses which would normally have drawn the massive gun-carriage carrying the coffin – so perfectly choreographed, made their own contribution to the flawless production transmitted around the world in far more an immediate and widespread manner than would be possible for my blog.

At Hyde Park Corner the coffin was gently laid into the hearse which would convey the Queen’s body by roads lined with humble humanity to her final resting place, once more alongside her Consort, Prince Philip, in Windsor Castle’s St George’s Chapel

The escorting convoy was led by a trio of motorcyclists.

This evening we dined on succulent soft centred haddock fishcakes, creamy mashed potatoes, piquant cauliflower cheese, and crunchy carrots. with which Jackie drank Hoegaarden and I drank Cariñena Monte Plogar Gran Reserva 2016. Elowen permitting, Flo and Dillon will eat later.

Raymond James Salinger 15.10.21 – 30.12.17

CLICK ON EITHER IMAGE IN CLUSTER TO ACCESS ENLARGED GALLERY

I only had the pleasure of knowing Ron’s father, Ray, during his last few years. I learned enough to echo the many observations that he was a true, kind, gentleman.

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I was honoured to be asked to produce the photograph on the front cover of the Service Leaflet for his funeral today.  It is a crop from one I made in August, and was the last opportunity anyone had of taking a good photograph of Ray. To have been there to do that was a blessing.

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15th September 2015 was the 70th anniversary of Ray’s wedding to Daphne, who survives him. Again, I was pleased to have been asked by Ron to make improved prints of the couple’s wedding album. One of those appears on the back cover. (The family are aware of the unfortunate typo re Prostate Cancer UK)

I had determined not to add any further photographs to this post, but a higher power intervened. Jackie and I occupied seats fronting the Baptismal font, against which had been placed a vase of white lilies. When a shaft of sunlight bestowed a beatific glow upon the open bloom I saw this as a symbol demanding inclusion.

The refreshments at Tyrrells Ford were excellent. A plentiful and well-filled variety of sandwiches, warm sausage rolls, and salad, was followed by an array of cakes. I chose a thick slice of moist fruit cake. Tea and coffee were provided, and the first drink at the bar was free of charge to the guests.