Beryl and Phil were  neighbours to my Mum and Dad in Thornton Heath  from 1954.  That started an amazingly close friendship between our families that lasted for the rest of their lives. My Mum and Beryl used to say they were more like sisters than friends.

Beryl told me that she was almost in the room when I was born. So many fun memories of holidays spent with them as I was growing up -birthdays and life events  celebrated over the years-too many to mention. 

When my Mum had dementia in her later years Beryl was so supportive-visiting Mum with us and showing so much care and concern. I began to realise that she had been a gentle guiding light all my life. Ready to listen and loving to hear my  news and share hers. 

I really did feel that she came to be like a second Mum to me and we often used to joke about that !

Beryl was an amazing lady , her energy , her sociability,  her zest for life.

I give thanks for her life and my love for her will stay with me for the rest of my life.xxx