25th April 2024

To my dearest and best friend Jenny, Words cannot express the depth of sorrow I feel at your passing. We shared so many wonderful moments together in the late 50’s and early 60’s, living directly opposite each other in Hyde Meadows, attending Bovingdon Primary, and even Sunday school together. We were always knocking on each other’s door, hoping we could play together. Your mum would invite me in and offer me a cup of tea while I was waiting for you to get ready: I usually settled for a warm orange squash served in a china tea cup - it always made me feel special. I remember on one Sunday afternoon, going for a cycle ride with you to Ley Hill. Just as we were thinking of returning home, you fell off your bike - I think you came down the hill too quickly! I started to panic as you were sprawled out on the road but you just got up, dusted yourself down and got back on your bike. We cycled home and you never complained once. You didn’t go to school the next day. Apparently, your mum wasn’t happy with the pain you had in your arm (which you hadn’t told me about) and decided to get you checked out. You had broken your clavicle! Even back then you showed a very soft exterior but had an incredible interior strength. Although our lives followed different paths, we never lost touch for too long. I cherished our occasional meet-ups in various locations, catching up on our latest ventures and sharing stories of our growing families. I was heartbroken when you shared your news, and I wish I could have shouldered some of your pain. Your strength and courage throughout your battle with cancer were truly inspiring. Even in the toughest times, your spirit remained unbroken. You had a unique gift for making everyone around you feel loved and valued. Your kindness, compassion, and zest for life were infectious, and I feel incredibly grateful to have had you as a friend. Though you may no longer be with us, your memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved you. I will cherish the memories we've shared. Rest in peace, Jenny. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten. With love and fond memories, Sally