Thursday May 23, 1985

 Moorhouse Inn

The funeral of my poor, young mother.  (Redaction).

We went to Guiseley. Left the car at Sue's and walked to Lynn's. A full house. Long, lost relations too numerous to mention. Ally was annoyed at the way so many family and friends treat Mum's funeral like an enjoyable family reunion. Flowers galore. I didn't read any of the cards because I didn't want to blubber. 

St Paul's, Esholt.

To St Paul's, Esholt. The church was full of friends. Mr Barnes, the vicar, attempted to ease the pain but could not justify the death of a loved and lovely 50 year-old wife and mother. St Paul's letter to the Thessalonians didn't help. We wept through the hymns. To Guiseley cemetery at 11:45. A dull, but thankfully dry morning. Mum was lowered into the damp earth and we huddled around in the damp grass. 

(Redaction).

Back to Lynn's  for whisky. Just the four children, spouses, JPH and Catherine - two impeccably behaved children. Dad walked back to Thorpe Lane after seeing all the mourners off. It was what she wanted. No large gathering afterwards. No wake. Just a funeral and then home. Collected Sam. Home for 5. I was in bed at 7:30 totally exhausted. ______Tragic.

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