In Loving Memory

Richard was cremated today.
The ceremony at the Manchester Crematorium was simple and moving. I've never travelled in a funeral cortege before and was humbled to be there. I had been given the great honour of being one of the pall bearers and there I was in the back of the black limousine edging gently from Chorltonville to the Cemetery. Anne, Margaret, Steve and John in the back, with Barbara in the from. Uncle Basil was also in the car. 'He was a rum one in his time' Anne whispered.
I was surprised by the reaction of people and deeply moved. Most people look on solemnly, and at least half of them cross themselves as the coffin went by. It was a sunny early afternoon and the children at Chorlton Park juniors were out in the park playing. The whole scene was touching.
We arrived at the Crematorium a little early to be met by the slightly comical sight of the previous mourners being hurried away to fit us in. Richard would have found in amusing, as he did many things about funerals, having conducted countless himself.
Afterwards we had a wonderful memorial service at Manchester Road and then food and mingling. People had come from far and wide, but also many of our friends from Chorlton were there. Richard had touched their hearts too. It was a warm and affirming moment.
It was a memorable occasion.