REMEMBERING JILL

In 2015 Jill and Gerry celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary. Marg
suggested that an ode might be appropriate for that very special event, and it
was Marg who supplied many of the recollections and anecdotes that found
their way into the resulting piece. I hope that on today’s very solemn occasion
we can find some solace in recalling some of these events in Hayward family
history. Jill lives on in our hearts and minds, and telling stories is an
important way of keeping her spirit with us. No apologies, then, for a few
touches of humour: I know that deeply sad though this occasion may be,
she’d want us to smile as we remember her.

Many years have passed since Jill and Gerry said, "we will"
In a lovely celebration, directed by James Hill.
They pledged their troth in Bledington, "for better or for worse"
And it's time to celebrate again, with a line or two of verse.

St Leonard's was the venue, and then the Langston Arms;
(The bridesmaids' home-sewn bonnets added greatly to the charm.)
A magnificent occasion, autumn colors for the bride,
And Gerry in his morning coat (mustachioed) at Jill's side.

Now the history is not quite clear, we need research, perchance;
But we think we know just where they met – a Tarts and Parsons dance!
Then a first few years in London, in a trendy Earl's Court place
Before the move to Sussex for a little breathing space.

First Watersfield, then Walberton for many a happy day;
And then to Felpham – what a joy – with the prom a step away.
Jill worked at Eros travel, knew airfares through and through,
And in later years was secretary of the Dragon sailors' crew.

And Gerry managed Hudson's, a well-earned source of pride,
Producing lovely furniture, distributed worldwide.
All sorts of ventures for the kids – most were involving sports,
And he even led the local cubs – Akela in his shorts.

Let's not forget the other members of the Hayward crew:
James and Thomas first; Elly and Amanda, too.
And grandkids Rosie, Freddie, Ruby: what a lovely trio;
And cats of course, and three fine dogs: Homer, Seb, and Coco.

And Fairbourne's always been a place the Haywards treasure
For holidays and weekends (in any kind of weather).
Encil, then Traeth Merion; and thanks to James and Elly's vision
Mawddach Crescent is the new HQ for expeditions!

But I can't say all was perfect, that wouldn't be quite right;
The days weren't always placid; the sun not always bright . . .
We've heard the story of the day Jill slipped and broke her leg
While rescuing Tim's little dog, stuck on a rocky ledge.

Dolgellau hospital was closed – they wouldn't – coudn't – treat her.
"My God," they said, "We cannot help: we're closed in lieu of Easter!"
And that day was one long epic, with problems by the score
Not just Jill's serious injury, as if they needed more.

The road at Fairbourne, freshly tarred, was walked on by the hounds;
And then of course they came inside, so tar was spread around.
Then Mother dropped the grill on which the sausages were lying
And burned the carpet badly – though then resumed (now frying).

And the younger kids, on board the Min, were traveling there and back
Enjoying season tickets till young James fell off the back;
And Alex somehow ended up with resin in his eye:
A day that we won't soon forget, however hard we try.

For many years Jill took the lead with aging loved ones, caring
For Hilary, and Auntie Dee, and also Fred and Mary.

But now we’ve come full circle, Jill, deeply thankful for your life
As the best friend, sister, granny, mother, aunt and wife.
Though we say goodbye we won’t forget; today is just the start
Of celebrating who you are: for you live on in our hearts.