We meet a great many people as we go through life. Some remain mere acquaintances, we wave as we pass on the street, or maybe chat for a few minutes if we meet in a shop. Some may end up in our address books or as a Facebook friend, and we remember to send them a card at Christmas or on their birthday, writing a quick note saying we will have to meet up soon. But some weave their way into our hearts, our minds and our lives, so much so that we can never ever imagine that we will ever be parted. That's how it was with Joanne and I.   I met Joanne when I was 21, and after our paths crossed a few times we soon became friends. Along with our other friends, all of whom are here today, we became a close knit group sharing many happy nights out, and holidays abroad and in the uk. So close that we rarely did anything unless we were together, we probably shared more fun and laughter in those years than most people have in a lifetime.   As time went on, and as family and work commitments grew, we all met less often but always knew that we were there for each other. I was lucky that somehow Joanne and I managed to remain in constant contact. She became my rock, my inspiration, and made me feel proud of who I was. For probably over 15 years we would meet about once a month and enjoy a meal in the Marriott Hotel. Creatures of habit, although we often talked of going somewhere else, we always ended up there, nearly always at the exact same table. It became our place. I would always feel proud of walking in there with Joanne. Always elegant, effortlessly stylish, and more beautiful with each year that passed, I would listen as she told me tales of what was happening with her friends and family. Although I would probably not recognise many of you, I have listened as your lives unfolded through Joanne. She had a huge capacity for love, and believe me when I tell you that she loved you all so much. When you suffered pain or disappointment, she would feel your pain, and when you had successes and triumphs, she shared your joy.   We all know about Joanne’s illness, and I know that she did not want to be defined by it, or remembered for it. She was so grateful for her life. We were discussing relationships one evening and I asked her at what stage in a marriage does it just become routine and comfortable. She pondered for just a few seconds before saying that she loved John as much that day as the day she got married. She said he had given her everything she ever needed. What greater tribute could any man hope for.  Kieran and Kirstie, look around you today at how many people have come to say goodbye to your very special mum, and be as proud of her as she was of you both. Deborah, you shared her life longer than anyone else here, and her love for you knew no bounds.   It made my heart ache when she asked me to speak at her funeral service. She did not tell me what to say, or ask me what I would say, but trusted me enough to know that I would express her feelings and I truly hope I have done that. I know that she would want to say a huge thank you to you all for being part of her life. She would also want to say a special thank you for all who supported her during her treatment. Especially Karen, Julie, her sister Deborah and anyone else who went with her to hospital, and Richard, whose wise words helped her to continue to hold God’s hand when she wanted to let go. And to Shirley, for your support, and for bringing your son into the world, a wonderful husband and father.   I am sorry if I have forgotten to mention anyone, but that would be my failure, not Joanne’s. She would remember you all.   I mentioned before Jos huge capacity for love, so it is quite strange that it was only about a year ago that Jo and I actually used the words ‘I LOVE YOU’, to each other. I suppose we thought that it goes without saying, but when we did we both shed a tear. It gave us both strength, so to close, I will ask this of you.   If someone has hurt you, forgive them, and if you have hurt someone, say sorry. Resentment is poison to the soul. If you love someone, tell them, not in a card or a text, say the words. It makes you stronger not weaker. And if you think someone close to you is sad for any reason, give them a hug. Do these things in Jo’s name, and that way we will not only keep her memories alive, but her very essence. I love you Joanne. Robert Macolive - 2nd September 2016

Sharing a thought through a Poem sent to me from our friend Gary Matthews SHE IS GONE You can shed tears that Jo has gone, or you can smile because she has lived. You can close your eyes and pray that Jo will come back, or you can open your eyes and see all that she has left. Your heart can be empty because you can't see Jo, or you can be full of the love that you shared together You can turn your back on tomorrow and live yesterday, or you can be happy for tomorrow because of yesterday. You can remember Jo and only that she has gone, or you can cherish her memory and let it live on. You can cry and close your mind, be empty and turn your back, or you can do what she would have wanted to SMILE OPEN YOUR EYES LOVE AND GO ON

I Have fond memories of Joanne, really sad to hear the news, she was a good friend to Michelle both taken way to young, Bless. Martin & Sam xx.