We are here to mourn the passing but also to celebrate the life of a wonderful,extraordinary woman, Margaret Eleanor Hoills, Granny.

She was a Mother of 4, Grandmother of 10, Great Grandmother of 12 and Great Great grandmother of 1. A constant and inspirational presence in all our lives,

As a child, after losing her father at the age of 3, Gran contracted an illness which left her physically disabled. As a result of this she had to visit a special school. This didn't stop her. It was characteristic of Gran that she eventually became a teacher there and an example to the younger children at the school.

As you can see she grew into a beautiful vivacious women, never short of admirers, but she chose my dear Grandfather William Hoills ( Bill). Together they had four lovely daughters Sylvia,Janet, Betty and Eleanor.

If they didn't keep her busy enough, Gran decided to set up her own business designing and making exquisite, embroidered children's   clothes. It was very rare to become a businesswoman in those days. But as I said Gran was extraordinary. She was able to buy her beloved house in 1948, 27 Summerhill Road, where she lived until she died peacefully in November 2002.

At this point I would like to express the family's gratitude to Ray Swain whose help, care and loving kindness allowed Granny to be able to spend her last years and to die in her own home.

Finally I was thinking about the legacy that I could try to follow from the example of my darling Gran's life. As well as many moments of joy and happiness Granny experienced moments of tragedy pain and loss. But through all of this she never gave up. She was determined to live every day to the full. Her strength of character and determination is an excellent legacy.

Gran's priority in life was the well being of other people. This continued until her dying hours, always ensuring that people were 'Alright' and that they should 'Take Care'. Take care of others, another fine legacy !

Gran loved the family, friends and neighbours. This was a special love. She loved their goodness and she loved their frailties. Unconditional love.  Maybe this is her most important legacy.

Lets treasure her memory. We many not see the like of her again. And as Auntie Janet remembers, a last bit of advice from Gran, recalling our Scottish Heritage

'D'nay fash yerser ! '

(This article has been retyped from the original writen by Maggie Hoills' Grandaughter - Sarah )