I have known Barbara all my life. She and my mum met at antenatal classes in Barnehurst in the 1950s and from that point had a deep and lasting friendship. In my pre-school days, we met several times a week at the swings in the local park. Once at school we shared tea once a week in each other’s homes, even when we no longer lived round the corner from each other. Mum was grateful for someone to share parenting experiences with, to laugh with and to experience sane adult company! From then for many decades, their shared interest in keep fit kept them active and healthy. Once Barbara and Dennis moved to Bexhill, they shared a long weekly phone call and after my dad died trips to stay in Bexhill.
For a few years they lived round the corner from each other in West Dartford. Here Barbara was instrumental in helping my mum to return to a faith she had neglected since leaving school. She joined Barbara and Dennis in Bible studies in their home and they worshipped together at the Brent.
When I remember Barbara, I am reminded of a fun loving, caring person. My mum would describe her unfailingly loyal and supportive, a shoulder to cry on and a source of wise advice. Throughout her life she devoted herself to her family – both those older and those younger. She and Dennis moved sacrificially to Bexhill to care for her older sisters in their later years. Although this had its frustrating moments, she had amazing reserves of patience coupled with an ability to see the funny side of things. Her servant heart extended to the churches she worshipped in where she fulfilled many roles. She showed perseverance and courage in facing ill health especially in her later years.
I am grateful for her influence in my life and in the lives of my parents. She is remembered with great fondness.