Funeral Arrangements For Joyce Williamson

The funeral of Joyce Williamson shall take place at St Andrew’s Church, Burstock DT8 3LJ* this Monday, 23rd September at 12 noon.
After a period of illness, Joyce died at home on Saturday, 7th September, less than 2 weeks before her 98th birthday.

Joyce leaves behind her daughter, Kathy, son, David, her Grandchildren: Tom, Edward and Joseph and her Great grandchildren: HarlowArchie, James, Ava and Felix – Her sister Susan and nieces. Our thoughts and prayers are with them all at this very sad time.

There will be a gathering to celebrate Joyce‘s life at Drimpton Village Hall afterwards.

Donations in lieu of flowers to A. J. Wakely for Weldmar Hospice and Buttercups Sanctuary for Goats.

*Parking is very limited – so please try to car share where possible – thank you.

❤ Joyce Williamson 19.09.1926 – 07.09.2024 ❤

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Funeral Arrangements For Paul Miller

The service for village resident Paul Miller will be held at Yeovil crematorium at 13.20 hrs. on Tuesday, 9th April.
Anyone who would like to come along and raise a glass in his memory, are welcome to join the family at The White Lion from 15.30 hrs. onwards.

“Thank you to everyone for all the kind thoughts, cards and flowers we have received, we are overwhelmed with kindness.”

– Chris and family x

Our Deepest Condolences
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Chris, Jo and all the family at this sad time.

❤ Paul Miller 04.09.1947 – 15.03.2024  ❤

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Farewell Simon Emmerson

Broadwindsor’s Comrades Hall was full to capacity on Thursday afternoon as family and friends gathered to celebrate the life of Simon Emmerson who died peacefully on 13th March 2023.

The ceremony at Yeovil crematorium had been full to capacity also. Led by Celebrant Philip Carr-Gomm, the Order of Ceremony was full of beautiful words and music:

  • Entry Music
    Peace, Love and Harmonium from Synaethesia,
    Lush Fresh Handmade Sound
  • Words Of Welcome
    Valerie Etienne singing Release.
  • Eulogy
    Paul Emmerson
    Ted Emmerson
  • Jackie Oates singing Lark in the Morning
  • Eulogy
    Adrian Matthews
    Johnny Kalsi
  • N’faly Kouyate plays the kora
  • Eulogy
    Mark Constantine
  • Child Among the Weeds by Lal & Mike Waterson
  • Closing Words & Farewell
    Time for Man to go Home sung by Forest School Camps.

After an exceptional and moving ceremony, family and friends gathered at the Comrades Hall.  Simon’s brother Paul invited those present to share their stories of their encounters with Simon… Without any hesitation, Simon’s mother, Marcia Last – now in her 90’s – was the first to speak and we thank Marcia and the family for their permission to share this amateur recording…


Paul
also gave credit and thanks to Simon’s Obituary, published in The Guardian newspaper – Click HERE.

Throughout the afternoon celebrations continued and a video montage played on the big screen with much memorabilia, predominately shared by Karen, on tables around the Hall.  This included an exclusive book of photographs taken by local resident and photographer, Jamie Dawson which he had published in time to gift Simon shortly before he died.
(Please note: all images below are copyrighted to James Dawson.)

Again with kind permission from Karen and the rest of Simon’s family, please enjoy this amateur recording by Peter Roe of the Imagined Village‘s encore! performance, joined by Billy Bragg, at the Electric Palace, Bridport last summer

 

Yesterday, the Afro Celt Sound System stated on social media, “Thank you Simon for leaving us with the immense magic and wisdom of your music. The New Album OVA (short for Ovate) and the Afro Celt Symbol) will be a continuation of the gift you have left us. We will tour and gig with you and Jo guiding us all the way. We love you and we miss you dearly.

Weldmar Hospicecare

Donations in Simon’s name for Weldmar Hospicecare may be given HERE.

❤ Our thoughts and prayers go out to Karen, Josie, Ted and all the family at this very sad time ❤

We all thank you Simon! Journey on…

❤ Simon Daniel Emmerson, 12.03.1956 – 13.03.2023 ❤


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Simon Emmerson Tribute On Radio 6

Aired yesterday, Gilles Peterson broadcast his tribute to Simon Emmerson on his Radio 6 programme: ‘Joining The Musical Dots: Simon Emmerson In Memory‘.

Available for the rest of April, starting at 1 hour, 36 minutes in – you can listen to it on BBC Sounds HERE.

Details of Simon‘s funeral may be found HERE.

 

❤ Simon Daniel Emmerson, 12.03.1956 – 13.03.2023 ❤


#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#TragicLoss,#SimonEmmerson,#ThankYouForTheMusic,#AfroCeltSoundSystem,#BBCSounds,#Thoughts,#Sadness,#Prayers,#MissYou,#Respect,#CelebrateLife,#Farewell,#Friend,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Simon Emmerson Tribute on Radio 4

Starting at 21 minutes in, today’s broadcast of the Last Word on BBC Radio 4 featured a tribute to Simon Emmerson, whose funeral will take  place on Thursday, 6th April.

To listen, please Click HERE.

❤ Simon Daniel Emmerson, 12.03.1956 – 13.03.2023 ❤


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Funeral Arrangements For Simon Emmerson

Bandleader, composer, multi-instrumentalist, producer and DJ whose interests ranged from rock, jazz, funk, soul and British folk to musical styles from Africa, Latin America and Asia; our village resident, our friend, Simon Emmersons funeral will take place on Thursday, 6th April. Simon died peacefully on on Monday, 13th March.

‘There will be a live webcast shown in the Comrades Hall beginning at 12 noon. There is no dress code and those who wish to pay their respects to Simon are warmly welcome.

A pay bar will be available with all profits going to the White Lion community pub.

Warm wishes from Karen, Ted and Josie.’

  • Simon’s Obituary, published in The Guardian newspaper – Click HERE.
  • Photo credit: Mark Bennett

❤ Simon Daniel Emmerson, 12.03.1956 – 13.03.2023 ❤


#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#TragicLoss,#SimonEmmerson,#ThankYouForTheMusic,#AfroCeltSoundSystem,#MarkBennett,#Thoughts,#Saddness,#Prayers,#MissYou,#Respect,#CelebrateLife,#Farewell,#Friend,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Tributes Pour In For Simon Emmerson

Village resident, exceptional musician and friend Simon Emmerson peacefully passed away at Weldmar’s Hospice on Monday, 13th March after living with cancer for several years.

The photograph, taken by Mark Bennett shows Simon on the right with Johny Kalsi (left) and N’Faly Kouyaté (middle) on stage just before a performance at WOMAD Festival.

Tributes have been pouring in on social media after his band, the Afro Celt Sound System publicly announced Simon‘s passing.:

Simon touched the hearts of millions of people through his music and infinite wisdom. His legacy remains with the amazing people he bought together and they will continue to create the magic of his music with his guidance from above.
We would like to request that our fans, friends and fellow artists to respect the privacy of the family at this difficult time.
There will be plans of a tribute memorial concert later in the year and the details will be released on all platforms.
Thank you and Love and Light to you all.”

Incredibly sad, our thoughts and prayers go to Karen, Ted & Josi .

Afro Celt Sound System

❤ Simon Emmerson (Booth) , 12.03.1956 – 13.03.2023 ❤


#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#TragicLoss,#SimonEmmerson,#ThankYouForTheMusic,#AfroCeltSoundSystem,#MarkBennett,#Thoughts,#Saddness,#Prayers,#MissYou,#Respect,#CelebrateLife,#Farewell,#Friend,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Farewell Colin Lawrence

Over 150 people from in and around the parish packed into Broadwindsor’s St. John the Baptist church yesterday afternoon to attend the funeral of Colin Lawrence who died on 23rd December 2022.

After the opening hymn ‘All things bright and beautiful‘, Colin’s granddaughter, Amy read a poem –

‘Goodbye Grandad’

Heaven has received another angel,
The night sky another star.
Your life has become a loving memory.
I know you will never be far.
I know you’re watching over me
As my life goes on.
I will treasure the memories I have of you.
I can’t believe you’re gone.
You were a loving, caring grandad
You were there for me a lot.
You will always hold a place in my heart,
A loving treasured spot.
You were really one in a million,
A cut above the rest.
All who knew you would agree.
You simply were the best.
So, Grandad, I will say goodbye.
I love and miss you with all my heart,
But as long as I have my loving memories,
We will never be too far apart.

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Rev. David Baldwin read the Eulogy prepared by his family:

Colin was born on the 2nd May 1937 and was the youngest son of Kathleen & Cyril, & lived at Seavington St Mary, near Ilminster. He had one brother, Keith. He attended schools in Ilminster. On leaving school he worked on a local farm and following this he did National Service in the Royal Air Force, his section being the Fire Brigade Crew. Some of this time was spent in Germany.

One winters night in 1956, Valerie & 3 of her friends were in Broadwindsor Square when they heard the sound of a motorbike approaching from Drimpton Road. On the bike was Colin riding pillion behind his brother!! After their first meeting, Colin continued to cycle from Seavington St Mary to Broadwindsor every weekend as due to work commitments that was the only spare time he had. This was the start of their romance & 64 years of marriage!

In 1958, on Boxing Day, they were married here in Broadwindsor Church whilst Colin was home on leave. There first marital home was in Burstock.

In 1961, Mandy was born. Unfortunately, Colin was away training in Finchley for the Fire Service so he missed this event.

Following his National Service he then worked for Newmans of Beaminster assisting with the digging of boreholes. After this he then drove for South Western Farmers in Crewkerne delivering animal feeds.

In 1966, Wayne was born and Colin was present this time!!

In the late 60s, Colin started driving for Ready Mixed Concrete until he retired, and still remained in contact with former workmates. The family recalls whenever they were on their travels in Dorset or Somerset, Colin would often comment, ‘I‘ve delivered concrete there‘, and would often remember what was being built at the time.

Sadly Colin lost his Brother, Keith, which left a huge hole in his life as they were so close, and used to visit one another on a weekly basis.

In 1971, the family moved to Broadwindsor, then in 2005 returned back to Burstock.

From 1972 – 1992 he served as a Special Constable working from Bridport Police Station. This was a job he enjoyed doing, giving back to the community.

In 1996, Amy arrived which made him the proudest Grandad ever. The family enjoyed many happy holidays together in Cornwall during Amy’s early years. He was so proud of her tennis achievements, which I’m sure you’re all aware of!! Amy can remember how he used to play tennis with her in the road at Burstock, and even in his 60s he could give her a run for her money. He also hit many balls in the neighbours gardens!

Colin loved the outdoors. He loved shooting, beating & gardening. He also played in a skittles team in the Cattistock Hunt League. Colin & Valerie also belonged to Broadwindsor Over 60s club which met monthly, and revelled in the outings. Through these interests he’s made many close friendships. Up until recently he was still gardening for Michelle & Mick at Broadwindsor, and Jackie & John at Clapton, despite having a large garden of his own. He liked helping other people out! He also loved animals. Over recent years has tamed many a stray cat, and they’ve all been given names.

Colin never lost his sense of humour whilst in hospital. On one occasion when Mandy & Amy visited him and the Nurse asked him who they were, he pointed at Amy and said, ‘That’s my Amy’, then pointed to Mandy and said, ‘She’s from Dorset’. It’s clear to say Mandy wasn’t expecting that!!

All of you that are here today will know that Colin was a positive, thoughtful, caring and loving family man, and would do anything to help anyone. However, his time keeping was not always the best, even in his final moments. Mandy and Amy having spent 32 hours by his bedside, the Nurses moved him into a side room, during this short distance with no one by his side he passed away much to the surprise of everyone. Particularly Amy, who uttered words that can not be repeated today!

Colin may be gone but will never be forgotten, and will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

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A lovely poignant poem followed:

Always there

When you remember me,

Please do not weep.

My body may not be there.

It has chosen to sleep.

 I’m not far away.

My soul lives on,

Looking down, watching over

You and everyone.

And when you feel sad

And life seems so blue,

Just remember

That my spirit has its arms around you.

And on those special days

Times that you wish I could see,

That cool breeze flowing past you…

Well, that will be me,

So don’t be sad.

Have no fear.

God has taken me under his wing,

But I’ll always be near.

I still watch you

Every minute, every day.

My love and soul are with you,

And that’s where they will stay.

Colin exited the church to the music ‘Always look on the bright side of life‘ performed by The Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines Commander in Chief Fleet. The Committal took place at Burstock Churchyard.
Afterwards, friends and family gathered together at the Comrades Hall to enjoy a lovely buffet and to share and celebrate their memories of Colin.

Any donations in Colin‘s name are requested to go to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.


❤ Colin Gerald Lawrence 02.05.1937 – 23.12.2022  ❤

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#SadLoss,#Family,#Love,#Thoughts,#Prayers,#Funeral,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#Wake,#Celebration,#Farewell,#MissYou,#LoveYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Funeral Arrangements For Colin Lawrence

The funeral service for Colin Lawrence, who passed away on 23rd December 2022, will take place at St. John the Baptist Church in Broadwindsor on Wednesday, 25th January at 2pm. His burial will then take place at St. Andrew’s church in Burstock.

Colin’s wake will be at the Comrades Hall, Broadwindsor and all his friends are invited to attend. Our love, thoughts and prayers go out to Val, Mandy, Wayne & granddaughter, Amy ❤


Family flowers only please. Any donations, please send to the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance HERE or by mail to c/o A J Wakely & Sons, 7 North Street, Beaminster, DT8 3DZ.

 


❤ Colin Lawrence 02.05.1937 – 23.12.2022  ❤

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#SadLoss,#Family,#Love,#Thoughts,#Prayers,#Funeral,#BeaminsterTeamChurches,#Wake,#Celebration,#Farewell,#MissYou,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe

Funeral Arrangements for Julie Steele

Julie Steele‘s funeral service will take place on Friday, 6th January at 2pm in St. John the Baptist church in BroadwindsorJulie requested that everyone please dress with colour 🙂

Julie, who died on Monday, 12th, always had a huge smile for everyone throughout her long struggle with cancer and will be sorely missed in her role as President of the village’s W.I.

Julie‘s service will be followed by her wake at the Comrades Hall.

❤ Julie Steele 21.07.1965– 12.12.2022 ❤

#Broadwindsor,#Burstock,#Blackdown,#Drimpton,#Hursey,#Kittwhistle,#Seaborough,#WestDorset,#Dorset,#Village,#Community,#WI,#Funeral,#StJohnTheBaptistChurch,#Respect,#Thoughts,#Prayers,#MissYou,#Farewell,#BeKind,#BeSafe,#StaySafe