St. Ippolyts feels a huge hole and it is hard to take in that Gillian is no longer with us in person (though no doubt looking upon us with that glorious laugh). She had been such a central figure for so many years, involved in every event and doing such a huge amount for the Church and community which were both so important to her. We give thanks for all her hard work and inspiration to us all.
David, Gillian’s son, quoted so aptly from this poem at the beginning of her Service:
“I shall pass this way but once: any good that I can do or any kindness I can show let me do it now”
How well that sums up Gillian – so many kind and thoughtful acts – so many people when ill must have found wonderful homemade food on their doorsteps, offers of help and/or a visit to cheer them. She truly put into practice “Love your neighbour as yourself”.
James (another of Gillian’s sons) gave an excellent Eulogy at her Funeral Service, excerpts of which are below. It gave a true picture of her and all the things which were so important to her:
“Our family would all like to thank ‘All of You’ for being here today to remember and celebrate Gillian’s life in this beautiful Church which meant so much to her and where she spent so many happy hours and celebrated so many special occasions during her life. Church was a very important part of her life, and she said that the hour in Church on Sundays, when all five of us had to sit still and in silence, gave her an enormous sense of calm, a place of peace in more than one sense. She loved to see the Church full, especially with young families.
Gillian was brought up at Girons in Hitchin and spoke very fondly of a happy childhood. She married Hugh in 1957 and so began the key roles in mother’s life, being a great wife and a fabulous mother and homemaker.
Central to my mother’s life were family, friends, creating a welcoming home, being with people and the importance of fun and laughter … and she certainly loved a party. She was proud of being a mother and of the importance of making a happy and comfortable home for her family. So many of our friends have commented how welcome they felt when they visited. A key part of our happy childhood was built around the community. She was a great contributor to events in the village to which she gave her time, energy and an awful lot of cooking. She was totally committed to the parish and community and to raising money for good causes – but also having lots of fun. Charity and being charitable to others was one of her key beliefs and she enjoyed her involvement with many local groups. And she had a staunch devotion to the British Monarchy.
She was happy in her final home in Cranborne Avenue, enjoying the garden, and deriving so much pleasure in seeing people. We are so grateful that all the kindnesses mother had shown people during her life were repaid in her later years – keeping her spirits up.
Gillian, Granny, Mother – you can rest now – thank you from us all.”
Anne Steel
