Lesley Scarth 1942 to 2019
The funeral on Wednesday 27th November at St John’s church Hagley:
The family’s perspective
Lesley’ funeral was a celebration of her life. We are incredibly grateful for all those of you who turned up and the dozens and dozens and dozens of sympathy cards. The formal part of the funeral started with the gathering outside our house in Clent Drive and immediately the grandchildren brought us to our senses. Five year old Elliot on seeing the hearse said “is Nanny in that box, I want to see her”. The family plus loads of others walked up to the church having informal chats and reminisces on the way. When we got 200 yards before the lychgate the church bells stopped, to be replaced by the single muffled tenor bell. It was a really moving part of the day. As we pushed the coffin into the church and towards the front, we were overwhelmed by the number of people already there. Apart from the beautiful hymns there were tributes from Lesley’s friend Jill including this poem “Loss” written by her.
I have to go and leave you now,
And given that there was no choice
My love fought back to find a voice,
To tell you not to grieve too much,
My essence is still there to touch.
When you feel empty sick at heart,
I’ll be right with you from the start.
Your life must take a different route,
From loud and strong to soft and mute.
Each day challenges will bring,
As your memories you cling.
As raw emotion tug back,
Love, anger, fear and hatred black,
I’ll be there as I’ve always been,
Safe haven, private place, serene,
You must forge on, a life renewed,
You have our friends and family brood.
Draw strength from them and find your way,
To face the world with each new day.
Wherever you go I’m part of you,
Good times and bad in all you do.
Hold on to all that we hold dear,
Remember, I’ll be waiting here.
Moving tributes from husband Richard, then sons Matt & Tim followed.
Lesley’s brother Howard with Richard, Matt and Tim gently pushed the coffin down the aisle, assisted by grandsons Harvey & Elliot.
The committal at Stourbridge followed, as did the wake at our busting family home. This continued until the karaoke stopped at 1:30 am.
A truly wonderful send off. Thank you.
More information? Please go to: tributetolesleyscarth.blogspot.com
