Every young girl has dreams of fairy tales and magic, hero knights and beloved kings. Of the Prince saving the Princess with True Love’s Kiss. I was lucky. I did not have to dream. My Grandfather transformed my childhood into exciting adventures; brought alive Christmas and Halloween. He protected and provided for the family, and showed me the true meaning of a Great Man. Not to mention the love I was privileged enough to witness between him and my Nan, which was better than any fable or film. 

Although I think this world is a much darker place without him, I can’t help but feel proud of the beacon of light that he was. He was like a lighthouse, standing proud - unmoved and unbroken - no matter the weather. His light navigated all those who knew him into a harbour of safety; whether that was as a friend, a father, a Grandfather, or a Husband. He was a shoulder to lean on, a pair of ears to listen, a set of eyes to see more than what you might say, and a pair of hands willing to offer help wherever he could. 

To have had him as my Grandfather, I can’t believe my luck. Sometimes the profound loss I feel snatches my breath away, but priceless memories of my Grandad and I floods air back into my lungs. To live even half a life as full as his will be a difficult feat. And that will be my mission - to try and live as good a life, filled with as many wonderful friends and family, as he did. 

I hope wherever Grandad is now, that he can finally rest - safe in the knowledge that the legacy he has left behind will endure. I will love and miss him forever. 


~ Forever and always your bestest girl in the whole wide world. 


P.S give Barney a big cuddle from me.