I have so many memories of Mary, too many to relate; however, I can say that I have very fond memories of a very dear cousin. When I was born my mum and dad were living with my Grandparents in Ward End, Birmingham. Mary told me that once when she visited our Grandparents I had suddenly appeared from nowhere, but as a 14 year old she didn’t do babies, although in photographs she looked comfortable holding me. And she didn’t do too bad later on with two amazing daughters.

Although Wales would be my home after my father passed away in the 50’s, my mother always made sure that we would keep in contact with the family in Birmingham, and we visited whenever we could. I must have made an impression on Mary as a baby because we were quite fond of each other and when we would meet I used to give her a bear hug. Although when she turned 80 she told me to be careful as she was in her eighties and fragile.

I last chatted with Mary at Christmas time while she was in hospital. We texted each other New Year messages after New Year’s Day. Little did I think that I would not be able to speak with her again! Anne and I, and Marianne and Jonathan, will miss Mary greatly, but she is now reunited with her beloved Graham and may their adventures continue together.