Debbies Poem: Dear Mum, Why did you have to die? Your loving family, These wonderful people, Here to celebrate your life. The story begun, 56 years ago, In 177, Bishops oak Ride. A rebellious child, full of passion & never backed down from a fight, Back in the 70’s of north Tonbridge, Cruising on a red chopper bike. The queen of her school, No one could beat her at drafts, Collecting a tally, Of broken schoolboy hearts. A whirlwind in her 20’s, 1 marriage and 3 children, A wonderful home, unconditional love, She was forever building. Short, long, dark or blonde, She had every Hairstyle, No matter what life threw at her, She always finished with a Smile. Working long nights, Providing, as you can imagine, Bringing cups of tea in the morning, (3 way gesture) Deciding which child will awaken the dragon. Childhood section (faster tempo) Homemade sandwiches, filled with egg and cress, Pushes on the swings, Yours were always the best. Karate competitions, horse riding, Nicole’s latest craze, Theatrical performances, With all 3 of us on the stage. Building dens, with the Brents, In knowle park, Lego flying everywhere, Chloe’s crazy art. Dancing in the living room, Singing aloud, fancy dress. Considering our childhood, (Pause) You really did give us the best. Life moved on, children grew up, Times, they changed. Being the best mother, steadfast, Remained unphased The curveballs of life, Left you without a plan, Until the day you met, That crazy hildenborough man. The love of her life, a scoundrel A true Woodgate, With del-boyish antics, Relied upon to not guide you straight Their love story, 18 years, It was to unfold, With loves twists and turns, That now we console. (Pause..) Jason… Thank you for protecting my mother, With your heart full of gold. Talking to plants, She was ever so keen, The bluest of eyes, The brightest you’d ever seen. An avid tea drinker, No Tetley’s, it has to be clippers, Never a mars bar, But it was always a snickers. Drinking wine from Jam Jars, Her quirks, they shone through, Life and soul of the party, For those of you who don’t know… Domino who whooo (High pitched) Her humour, a spark that brightened each day, Even in mourning, She finds a quirky way This whole room, so colour and so bright, The love from everyone, Here as we all unite. In shadows deep, a courage worn, A battle fought, a spirit sworn, Through gritted teeth and silent tears, She confronted her deepest of fears 1 diagnosis, 2 surgeries, 3 final years, We reminisce, Never displaying less resolve, But always will be missed Showing great strength, Doctors in disbelief, Cancer you cunt, you stealing thief, I’m sorry for swearing mum, Let’s blame it on grief Rest easy now, in enteral relief Through pain endured, Your spirit that soared, Bravely facing what life implored, So please therefore, We shall all Applaud…your bravery throughout. It’s not goodbye, but farewell, See you soon, Mum, I’ll love you always, And this poems for you. Your bestest boy. X