Page 99 - Through a glass brightly

(The following are not in chronological order but are grouped together here. Some personal reflections and memories have been omitted.)
From Sandy at 16.36
I was so sorry to hear of Rod’s death, somehow death takes us by surprise even if we know it’s inevitable and may be imminent. So good he was at home as he wished and with you there with him and the nurse at hand. Peter and I have been reminiscing about the time you and Rod visited us in Bristol. That’s has to be 50 years ago! I can’t remember where you were living then. Peter thought we may have visited you soon after that, though I have no recollection of it. (Peter’s memory is very creative and mine has gaps!)
I know that you have many friends and helpful sons and family and I hope that their support will comfort and uphold you. We’re thinking of you with much love and sympathy and prayers.
From Daphne at 20.29
Like everyone in our group I was so sorry to hear your news. As I’m sure you know, we have all very much been thinking and praying for you both in recent weeks. How lovely that you were able to share our missives with Rod. I’m sure he would have been reassured to know you had the love and support of us all.
As you know we have not only school and commemoration memories but also happy times when we met for lunch in Ashbourne when you lived at Abbots Bromley and I lived in Bakewell.
I’m so glad our IIIF group has encouraged you at such a difficult time and that you have been a able to look on ‘the bright side of life.
From Jenny at 10.59 on 24th May
I think the rest of our group have said everything there is to say very eloquently. You know that you are very much in the thoughts of all of us at this sad time.
I was thinking back to when I first met Rod - I thought then that he reminded me very much of your father - do women often go for that type I wondered? My husband was certainly not at all like my father! I remember your wedding reception at West Lodge when Rod made a most gracious and eloquent speech. I remember visiting you both when you lived in Tonbridge - and also visiting you at your parents' house when you were pregnant and suffering from severe morning sickness!!
When we both had children, we visited again when you were in Abbots Bromley and had all those beautiful cats. My elder daughter was entranced with them - there must have been nearly 20 of varying sizes. Fortunately, there were all in one room as my husband was cat-phobic and sat rigidly on your settee while Gail and I drooled over the cats and kittens in another room.
We have kept in touch over the years and of course met up occasionally when you came to Old Girls lunches. Some years ago, we met up in a hotel in Malvern where Richard and I were staying and on another occasion joined you and Rod at your Ruby Wedding - a very happy event.
I am glad to know that you have the support of the boys through the coming weeks and months and I know that you have had some time to prepare yourself for this next stage of your life. You sound as if you have got a good life - when the lockdown is lifted - and I know that as a QE girl you will cope with everything!
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