Derek's mother Ivy and Doris became friends at the tender young age of 5 yrs old, They grew up together, went through the war together, and their husbands were best friends too! and both couples would attend many parties and functions. Sadly Derek's mother Ivy passed away in 1979, and we know that Doris never stopped missing her best friend and would mention her often in conversation, which was lovely.

I became friends with Doris myself 20 years ago when I met Derek (Ivy's son) and Doris and I instantly 'hit it off'. It was like we had always known each other and been friends for years! There was no age barrier between us! Doris was always much younger than her years! When we met we lived 2 streets apart, and Doris, Derek and I would spend lots of times, having a cuppa or a meal, and used to regularly have Sunday lunch together either at our home or with Doris in hers, or in the village pub, having a good laugh, talking about life, family, and always love, and Doris would tell me stories of the past - some romantic, some happy, some sad but she was also, so very proud of her efforts to help their sons get through University, which of course they did and Doris was so very very proud of their subsequent achievements and would always tell about them often. Doris ALWAYS would say to me "Karen, always remember, 'Love' is everything - nothing else matters". I will never forget that!

We like everyone else could not believe that even into her twilight years, how incredible she was. Her memory was astounding and she could complete a crossword in a matter of minutes! and she could swim an amazing amount of lengths - unbelievable! and her sheer determination not to let any physical problem she subsequently suffered get her down. She would just look for an alternative way round the problem instead! what an inspirational woman We hope and pray that we may be half as good as Doris was, should we lucky enough to attain her age!

Doris would have been been 99yrs old in September, and when she smiled, she quite literally would light up the room, looked and acted much younger than her years and she was a kind, thoughtful, caring, intelligent, loving and very clever lady. Someone who I aspire to be. Derek and I will always love you dearest Doris, as you were like a mother to us! I just know that my world has become even smaller now that I have lost a very close and dear friend. R.I.P to an eloquent, elegant, beautiful lady! We hope you are now reunited with Sid, Ivy and Dennis. Much love to you Doris not only for today, but for the rest of our lives.. Karen & Derek Richardson xxx