It has been just over two years since you passed, Nan, and they say time makes things easier – but that hasn’t been the case for me.
Every little thing reminds me of you. Every number 7, every Aretha Franklin song, every gold bar in the shop. Each one brings back the ache that you’re not here to tell about it, to laugh with me, or to share those moments.
I’ll never forget your funeral – the first I ever attended, and one of the hardest days of my life. Stephanie, the funeral director, walked out onto the dual carriageway in stilettos with such dignity and respect for you. In that moment, something lit up inside me. I knew I wanted to do the same: to be there for families in their hardest times, to show them the same respect that was shown to you.
Now, I work in the funeral industry, and I do it for you, Nan. Every day, I try to give others the dignity and care you deserved. I hope I’m making you proud.
With your ashes in my ring, we’ve now visited over 10 countries together. From taking you to Bali to swing over the rainforest, to gliding along the River Seine in Paris on a beautiful boat ride I know you would have loved – I carry you with me everywhere. I will keep my promise to you: one day, we’ll have visited every country on the map.
I love you always, Nan. I’ll carry you with me, and I’ll live for you 🤍🐬
Kate Ryle
16/08/2025
