To the York family that we hold so dear to our hearts.

It is with heavy hearts that I write to express Caz' and my deepest condolences to you and your extended family on the passing of your beloved Mum, Eileen. We were profoundly saddened to hear of her passing and our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this very sad time.

Eileen (who I always called Mrs York, out of the greatest of respect) was more than just a neighbour to us at 5 Spring Grange Road, Westville, she was a cherished friend, a pillar of strength and a beloved member of our extended family for the past seven decades or so. Her warm presence, unwavering kindness, and genuine concern for others left an indelible mark on our lives and the lives of countless others.

As a mother to eight children, Eileen's love and devotion knew no bounds. She epitomized the essence of motherhood, nurturing her children with boundless affection, guidance, and support. Her wisdom, wit, and unwavering commitment to her family were truly admirable and served as an inspiration to all who knew her.

Eileen's magnetic personality and genuine kindness endeared her to so many friends throughout her life. Her ability to brighten any room with her infectious laughter and genuine warmth was truly remarkable. She had a heart of gold, and her generosity and compassion knew no bounds.

As I sit here reminiscing about my childhood with the York's, I remember Eileen’s warm smile and welcoming presence in the Yorks' house come flooding back to me. I can still vividly recall the days when I would stroll through the front door, without so much as a knock, greeted by the comforting familiarity of the long passage. There she would be, in the kitchen, that lovely smile of hers lighting up the room as she’d say, "hello Michael, John's in his room," and off I would go, feeling like I belonged.

One particular memory stands out among the rest, etched in my mind like a cherished keepsake. I must have been around 10 years old, bustling about the neighbourhood, eager to lend a hand and raising funds for the Scouts as a young Cub. It was then that she entrusted me with the task of tending to the roses in the three-tier rockery outside the dining room. With hose in hand, I set to work, unaware of the invaluable lesson that awaited me.   

As I watered each plant, she appeared by my side, wielding a small spade with a gentle yet instructive demeanour. With a keen eye, she observed my efforts and gently pointed out where I could improve. "Michael, you are not watering properly," she said, demonstrating how the soil should feel, how the water should seep down into the roots. Her guidance was more than just a lesson in gardening, it was a lesson in care, attention, and diligence.

Now, as an adult, my love for gardening has only deepened and with it, my appreciation for the lessons she imparted. That "true story" from over 60 years ago still resonates with me, serving as a constant reminder of the importance of nurturing not just plants, but relationships, memories, and the values we hold dear.

Today as I tend to my garden, I can't help but smile at the memory of her, standing there with her spade in hand, teaching me the art of watering with such patience and grace. Though I may have taken her lesson to heart perhaps more fervently than most, with my moisture meter and precise watering routine, I do so with a sense of gratitude for the foundation she laid all those years ago.

Thank you, Eileen, for your warmth, your wisdom, and the lasting impact you've had on my life.

While we all mourn the loss of such a remarkable woman, we take solace in knowing that Eileen's legacy will live on through the countless lives she touched and the memories she leaves behind. May you find comfort in the cherished memories you shared together and in the love and support of family and friends during this difficult time.

Caz and I are sad to be so far away and not able to pop in to see you all in person, to share a cup of tea and reminisce about the good old days in Westville and the wonderful memories we share!  Eileen will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to shine brightly in our hearts forever and her legacy will continue to live through her amazing children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

With heartfelt sympathy and love,

MIKE and CAZ