Dear Friends,
Please accept my apologies for taking so long to write this. The months since September have been difficult and hectic but that is no excuse for not getting this letter to you earlier.
Rebecca, Alex, Edward and I want to say how grateful we are to all of you who gave your unstinting love, support and care to Geoff over the years. Without a shadow of doubt I know that Geoff would want me to tell you how much he treasured your friendship and that it was your support and love that many, many times gave him the strength and will to keep fighting mentally and physically.
Geoff refused to allow his physical restrictions to limit the effort, time and devotion he gave to his beloved parish, but he told the children and I on more occasions that I can count that he was repaid tenfold by the love and support that you gave him so generously in return.
As a family too, we have been privileged to be surrounded by your kindness and to have lived amongst so many friends in such a wonderful parish. All the children were born and grew up in Shedfield and the memories of happy times shared with you are precious. You were always there for us in the not-so-happy times too, supporting us, offering practical help and making sure we were coping. We will never forget your endless kindness and unfailing friendship.
Thank you for turning up in your hundreds to be with us at Geoff’s Service of Thanksgiving and for making ft an occasion full of joy and love, in exactly the way he would have wanted. We always knew the great affection and esteem in which Geoff was held by so many of you but to have it demonstrated so clearly on that day meant more to us than you will ever realise.
Thank you also for the avalanche of letters and cards you sent us in the days and weeks that followed. They were, and always will be, a great comfort to all the family. The depth of love, respect and admiration for Geoff that you expressed in them was overwhelming and we will save and treasure each and every one.
Please keep in touch. St John the Baptist Church and the parish of Shedfield are deep in our hearts.
With love always,
Maxine, Rebecca, Alex and Ed. (Morrell)
