Bev loved Willow pattern tableware, and so the theme of the morning was blue and white. The family all dressed in hues of blue and white, and the chapel was decked out with blue and white flowers, featuring some of Bev’s most treasured Willow pattern collectables. Even the tissue box was Willow pattern, as was the urn containing Bev’s ashes. 

After welcoming the guests, I played the song, “For the Good Times,” by Bev’s favourite singer, Kenny Rogers. Bev’s daughter, Sandy, supported by sisters Di and Sherry, told the story of Bev’s life via her eulogy. Bev’s mother died when she was only eighteen months old, and she grew up in an orphanage – an experience that fuelled Bev’s drive to be a most devoted mother when she was blessed with three daughters of her own after her marriage to handsome ringer, Bryan, who she met when they both worked on a cattle station up north. This led, naturally, into the song, “Ringer from the Top End” by Slim Dusty.

A celebration of life ceremony is all about the sharing of memories, and Bev’s granddaughter, Romana, told of her Nanny’s warm hugs, and of Bev’s generosity of her time. Bev baked delicious treats for her family, and constantly stitched and embroidered outfits for the grandchildren and their dolls and teddies, and later as they grew, curtains and bedspreads for their homes.

A slide show of photos, each picturing evoking a collection of memories, was displayed on the screens, set to another Kenny Rogers song, “Goodbye”.

Finally, Bev’s great grandchildren pre-recorded a reading of a poem, which was accompanied by photos.

The celebration of life concluded with the playing of, “I Walk the Line,” by Johnny Cash, played loudly, as requested.

The summer’s day was warm, and the family appreciated the cool air conditioning in the chapel, and took the opportunity to reconnect with family from interstate and overseas as they shared a cup of tea and biscuits and shared their recollections of this amazing lady.

Venue: Sure Thing Chapel, Capalaba

Celebrant: Cheryl Landsberry

Morning tea: Cakes by Simone

Photographs: Romana Saeheng