Jean's a 'true and loyal friend'

Having been friends for over 20-years, Joan wrote to the Times to pay tribute to a ' true and loyal friend' who is always a 'pillar of strength' for both her friends and family.

In an emotional letter, Joan wrote: "Jean and I have been friends for 20 years, a friendship which has flourished and strengthened each year. Jean is always a person who is there to help, offer a hand or simply listen when times are tough.

"The main focus of life for Jean is her friends and family. She is always putting them in front of herself, ensuring that they are well before considering about her own desires and thoughts. Jean was married to Sammy for 58 years and was a truly devoted wife and companion.

" When Sammy was facing many challenges in his life, including health issues, Jean was always there to support him, never missing a hospital appointment and and always visiting him when he was in hospital. For jean this was never seen as a task, but more of an opportunity to comfort and offer support, constantly showing her dedication to her husband to ensure he returned to full heath and strength as soon as possible.

"In the later years of their marriage Jean was a full time carer for Sammy, never faltering and continually being the pillar of strength she had been for so many years before. When Sammy fell ill in November last year, Jean showed a vast amount of strength in character and overall devotion to her family, always being there, offering a smile and a comforting word when times were becoming even more challenging than anything she had ever faced before. Sammy passed away on 11th November 2009, a time which was devastating for all the family and friends. "However the support and courage which Jean and her family showed at this time, shows how close she and her family are, and how much respect and admiration they have for her.

"As well as Jeans devotion to her family, she also has a true dedication to her friends, something which i an testify for. This was very evident to me on a number of personnel occasions. When my mother fell ill i needed a lot of help and support, Jean was always there for me with a listening ear and giving me practical support when it was needed.

"Later when I was married, Jean was there to help me celebrate a happier time in our lives and helping me on a practical level to set up a new home. Unfortunately, my marriage broke down but the one person I could depend on was my true and loyal friend Jean. She was there to help me wipe the tears and offer advice and support when i needed it most. Following that I set up home again on my own and Jean has always been a welcome visitor to my home.

"Over the years we have had many social outings together, shared sad times but also had lots of laughs and good times. At times when life just seemed to be knocking me down, Jean always had positive thoughts and seemed to keep me going.

"For all the above reasons, I feel that Jean deserves some recognition for all her dedication, help, support, advice, thoughtfulness, kindness and unselfishness that she has displayed to her family and to me."