Thursday 28th September 2023
“Today marks what would have been Marie’s 60th birthday, a momentous occasion that compels us to honour her memory with heartfelt words.
Marie embodied the essence of elegance, with her makeup impeccably applied and her hair artfully styled, she exuded a timeless grace that defined her, even during her final weeks.
Her kindness and thoughtfulness were renowned, as she carried herself with an unwavering humility throughout her life. Hardworking and unassuming, she set an example that inspired us all.
For nearly four decades, we walked the journey of life hand in hand, sharing 35 of those years as husband and wife. Our love brought two beautiful children into this world, and together, we carved a life filled with unforgettable moments. Alas, life doesn’t always unfold as planned, and it can throw the cruelest of surprises, as we experienced first hand.
In the face of cancer’s relentless grip, families and friends often speak of the bravery displayed by their loved ones, and Marie was no exception. Her courage, however, transcended the ordinary; she possessed the heart of a lion, a fierce determination to cling to life. Her battle with cancer commenced on December 1st 2018, and it came to an end on February 14th, 2021. During this arduous journey, she waged an unceasing war against the disease. Remarkably, she never uttered a single complaint about the treatments she endured. She simply soldiered on, for those who knew Marie recognised her aversion to the spotlight and her distaste for excessive fuss.
If there exists an afterlife, I would send this message to you, Marie: I am immensely proud of you. Your strength of character and the unwavering dignity with which you faced your illness are nothing short of remarkable. Throughout your lifetime, you exemplified what it meant to be “a class act.” Your absence is keenly felt, not only by me but by all who had the privilege of knowing you.
One invaluable lesson you imparted to me and our children is how precious life is. We carry this wisdom with us every day, striving to live our lives to the fullest, inspired by your indomitable spirit.
The care Marie received at St Cuthbert’s Hospice was nothing short of magnificent. The staff, those incredible human beings, touched our hearts with their unwavering support. Without this charity, people like us would struggle to find solace. To each and every one of them, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.
I must also extend a special thank you to my brother-in-law, Jim Goodrum and his friend, Mark Gray. Their dedication to this noble cause, walking not once but twice, and raising thousands of pounds, is a testament to their deep love and respect for Marie’s memory. Last year, they trekked the length of Hadrian’s Wall alongside another friend Paul Palmer, in Marie’s honour. This year, they walked alongside yet another friend Graeme Nolan, conquering the “St Cuthbert’s Way Walk” from the Scottish Borders town of Melrose to Lindisfarne.
Marie, your memory will forever reside in the hearts of our children, your parents, our families, and friends. We will continue to love and cherish you, always. xx”
All day today for twenty four whole hours our full clinical running costs have been kindly donated in loving memory of Marie Johnson with a ‘Pay for a Day’ donation. We are extremely grateful for this special donation.💚
