Tricia was forever the optimist. For her the proverbial glass was
neither half-full nor half-empty – it was simply overflowing. Life was very much for living.
This optimism along with an inherent grace and charm were the very essence of this beautiful woman.
When her strong religious faith was added, Tricia was well equipped to deal with life’s trials and tribulations.
As a young woman facing widowhood, following the death of the love of her life Arthur, Tricia held things together in the face of
adversity.
She not only had to take over the reins of parenthood, alone, but she also stepped in to run the family business.
Tricia was not a person driven by ambition or avarice – she would have preferred to have remained as the stay-at-home mother.
But to her, responsibilities were to be shouldered, not ignored nor shirked.
Tricia took great pride in her family and showed immense love for all. She was always there with support, advice and love.
Her great compassion extended beyond the family. She helped many, whether they were friends or strangers.
Tricia’s many years of service in fundraising for the N.S.P.C.C., and in committee work for the charity, bore witness to this.
She enjoyed good conversation and the odd debate in which political issues could be thrashed out.
Tricia was always engaging and charming. Indeed, it was easy to see how she must have enchanted the dashing Cary Grant when they met by chance on the French Riviera as the actor was enjoying a break in filming To Catch A Thief.
Over the years Tricia enchanted everyone who found themselves in her company.
She was a special person who will be missed by many.
Several years ago she said the family should “remember me with joy”.
We certainly will.
30 December, 2010