Mum was a woman who has touched us all.
She had a particular brightness, a noticeable keen interest. She made such careful observations of people that we jokingly referred to her as ‘our Miss Marple’. Just like Miss Marple, she was an astute, decisive, capable and careful person who always demonstrated exceptional integrity and unusual talent.
More importantly, mum offered us love and time. I think that her ability to really listen and respond wisely to others was her most treasured attribute.
Stella was a fabulous judge of character! This is exemplified by her incredible decisiveness when it came to choosing her husband! When a bowled-over dad asked her to marry him within just 8 short weeks – she didn’t hesitate, knowing she had met a truly incredible man.
…….Well, she was certainly right wasn’t she!! 😊 (she nearly always was!!).
They shared 66 loving years together.
Stella developed so many lasting friendships; keeping in continued contact with her piano pupils, her cherished teaching colleagues, her lifelong friends and even school pals over many decades and throughout her old age. In recent years, people have come repeatedly to see her; a sure sign that she was loved and cherished.
Towards the end of her life, her gentle relationships with her carers has been particularly touching, and it is wonderful that some of you join us here today.
As for family, Stella was undoubtedly a lively and loving daughter, sister, wife, aunty, mother and granny. She made every one of us feel wholly important.
Kate and I have been so lucky to receive her rock-solid unconditional love, and guidance - enabling us to navigate our way through life’s complexities.
Of course, Stella could be funny and clumsy just like the rest of us! - but she always somehow maintained a rather unique air of poise.
We share family sniggers around certain events such as when she climbed up a 6ft balustrade in the dark, in the middle of a public slide show - trying to find a suitable seat. We recall her driving straight though major roadworks on the A30 having not quite ‘noticed’ them, and remember fondly her days of chauffeuring two boisterous children, two over-heated dogs, three surprised budgies and one snoring husband to our holiday destination in Somerset without ever getting in a flap.
Her legacy, I know, continues on through dad, Kate and me, and in all her grandchildren in the way we adore and respect her.
It was almost 86 years ago, that a baby girl was born on March 6th 1937.
Her loving parents called her ‘Stella Constance’.
Mum has steadfastly fulfilled those earliest aspirations.
She will always be our Everlasting Star.
_______________________________________________
Sarah Greenwood
31st January 2023