When I was a little kid, you were always there for me,

I'd be frightened of the dark,

So you would sit me on your knee.

You always knew the things to say, to rid me of my fears

I would look into your face as you wiped away the tears

I grew into a teenage brat and you would shake your head

When I would shout and slam the door and stomp upstairs to bed.

Time passed and in my twenties, I found a place to call my own

Yet you said that I should come for tea, your house was still my home.

So I'd descend on you, three times a week and search your shelves for grub,

I'd feed my face and skive some cash, then scarper to the pub.

However, one day you got poorly and it was then I knew

The time had come to change the roles and I'd be there for you.

We talked about your illness, what would happen when you died,

You were so brave, your head held high, I just broke my heart and cried.

I held your hand that morning, as you fought so hard to stay

But God saw you were suffering, so He lifted you away.

It's been three months since you left, but it's only now I see

Each time my heart beats in my chest, I know you live on in me,

So, the family gets together to talk of good times that we had,

And I go quiet and think of you, my wonderful, loving Dad. Sharon Marie Holstead

Rostherne Gardens

Deane

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.