It’s hard to believe that today my once fun-filled friend Sue will be turned to 
dust and ashes, that her life ended so tragically.
I tell myself that she is now at peace, with no more demons to fight, and I have our happy memories of beach parties and her wicked sense of humour to make me smile. She will be greatly missed, especially by her two whippets, Chablis and Claret.
However, I can’t bring myself to delete her mobile phone number from my directory, I think it will always remain there.
A cautionary tale indeed. I know what you mean about not deleting her mobile number. A friend of mine died after an evening out drinking (alcohol again,ugh!) and I did not delete his mobile number for several years afterwards. He was 29.
My condolences Ellee. Jim.
110 people turned up to pay their last respects, including the lovely Sister Thomas More from Sue’s old convent school who Sue and I visited once. Lost count how many times we said “if only…”
A sad day for you Ellee x
Agaun, I am so sorry, Ellee. It is hard to delete someone’s number, address, etc., as it’s so final. You did all, and more, that a friend could, Ellee.
Ellee, I’m so so sorry. Echoing Welshcakes Limoncello – it is hard to delete – don’t bother, hon, my friends’ are still on my mobile, and if I ever get a new one I’ll probably add their number then.
Take care of yourself, and once again I’m so sorry to hear this.
Ellee – tough day. Funny how it is the little things like the mobile numbers and also email contacts. I hate the word “delete” as it is a reminder of the finality. We’re lucky to have the good memories though.
My codoleces Ellee, and to all Sue’s family.
Aw Ellee, I’m so sorry. But I’m sure it was wonderful to have her as a friend, and that is what will always matter.
As others have said, my condolences go to you and to her family.
Many thanks everyone for the condolences, much appreciated. I find myself wishing I could see her again just one more time. Her brother made a speech and reminded us of her many kindnesses, her wacky sense of humour, her talent for mimicry, the many reasons why Sue was so special to us and will be sorely missed; the Sue of old was truly unique, a one-off.
So sad about your friend, Sue. It is difficult to stand on the sidelines, knowing there is nothing you can do to help. Alcoholism is such a destructive disease. I’m so sorry your friend couldn’t beat the battle over her destructive demons. However, her smile and the times you shared will forever remain part of you.
There is no reason you have to delete Sue’s number from your mobile…keep it there…you will know when and if you should delete…nothing and no one says you have to do so.
Hi Ellee, my heartfelt condolences to you and Sue’s family. It seems your friend is truly unique. It’s very hard to forget such people. I understand your feelings. May God bless her family. Take care.
Not an easy time for you Ellee – I’m sorry.
Is there still an ansafone message on her phone that helps?
I still keep past friends’ email addresses in my PC, as hopefully, their families keep them going as well.
It’s the ‘Only in the next room’ answer I’m afraid, but a great comforting postscript.
Keep going.
not sure what to say Ellee. Hope ou are not feeling too sad. She had a great smile.
Yes, sincere condolences. Interesting that you mention the mobile phone. I also can’t delete either my stepfather’s or my departed lady-love’s. Particularly in the latter case as she still phones me. In the end we must face reality I suppose. Only not just yet.
I’m sorry to read this Ellee. My thoughts are with you.
Sorry, Ellee.
We choose our friends, so this makes the loss worse in many ways.
The grief from losing a dear friend is something we have in common.
I am sorry about your friend.
Chesca
Pittsburgh, Pa.
USA
Chesca, I am sorry to hear your sad news too.
[…] This week is going to be hectic catching up with friends, including Sue’s bereaved husband, who is a bit of a culture vulture and is taking me to see the great soprano Kiri te Kanewa this evening. I have asked him to give me some photos of Sue, including some taken on their wedding day – the only time I ever saw her wear a dress. […]
[…] Memories of Sue By Ellee I met my friend Sue’s husband for lunch today, my friend who died last year. They didn’t have any children and have no close family in the area and he is pretty much alone. He works abroad half the year as a tax exile, he is a captain of a merchant navy ship. […]