Last Saturday saw a very different but equally special event at Harefield Barn when friends and family gathered from all over the country to celebrate the life of my Mum, Gillian Mary Gibb who sadly passed away on the 21st March.

A week ago today, my siblings and I, plus our partners, took Mum back to Eastergate in West Sussex, as was her wish, where she now lies with her parents within sight of the bedroom where she was born 87 years ago.

On Saturday we held a truly personal and heartfelt ceremony, beautifully led by independent celebrant Rachel Henderson, with some lovely contributions from members of Mum’s family, including a song composed and performed by one of her granddaughters.

A sad but uplifting day for everyone, and a fitting tribute to an…

Unparalleled family supporter

Florist

Garden Creator

Great Cook

Tearoom Proprietor

Longstanding School helper and Governor

Charity Fundraiser

Long service County Show Volunteer

Loyal Friend and Godmother

and simply one of the hardest working people I have ever known!

With swallows and buzzards performing acrobatics across a beautiful blue sky, it was a wonderful place to reflect on our memories of a great lady at the end of a long life – very well lived.