David, I thank you for giving the Bowls Club the opportunity to be able to say a few words that may be of comfort.
It will certainly give me the opportunity to express my own feelings and many of Carole’s bowling friends.
Looking at the congregation will tell you how popular Carole was with her club members.
It seems like 5 minutes ago, when it fact it was 5 years ago, on a bowling afternoon when one of the members called me over and enquired ‘who is that big fellow and the lady with the posh voice?’
I remember thinking at the time this was an odd sort of question, it had two parts. Identifying Carole and David was the easy part – it was the emphasis on the voice that raised a smile. Posh being a word I was not familiar with so there was not much I could add other than to say in Carole’s case it added a certain charm to the rest of Carole’s demeanor.
However there was much, much more to Carole’s character, which we all became to know.
The bowling club became part of Carole’s life and the club was more than happy to have shared it with her.
Her company was always interesting, her sense of humour always brought a smile, members of this nature are essential to the smooth running of any club – Carole played her part.
On match days we have a dress code, meaning of course you had to comply. Carole always added that little bit extra with her wide range of headwear. We never saw the full range however David told me at a rough guess Carole was the proud owner of over 30 of these colourful items.
Carole had other qualities including the constant supply of fresh veg – many members benefited from her generosity.
We are both allotment holders. This is where Carole put her green fingers to good use – I’m not sure who is the gardener or assistant, it must have worked, the produce was always top class.
It was at last years’ end of season party where it falls on me to show my appreciation for the support from other members.
This year I include The Green Grocer. Carole found that amusing when the penny dropped, I was treated with a cheeky grin of approval, followed by a pointed finger.
We must not forget her dedication to improve her bowling skills, we all know what Carole was capable of, every bowl had to count.
A permanent member of the B team and supporter of the Friday league, being an owner-driver was a huge asset to Bob her team captain, being mobile on the away games was always very useful. I am sure Bob would endorse that
Finally, there are things in life you half expect others come when you least expect them.
This was certainly on of them, the members were is dis-belief at the loss of such a wonderful pleasant lady well before her time.
David the bowls club wish you the strength and fortitude to handle these early days of grief for all your family.
Once the NHS has sorted your requirement to a better health we will see you back with us.
The poem I’m about to read is one that I feel fits the occasion.

When I come to the end of the road, and the sun is set for me
I want no rites in a gloom filled room, why for a soul set free
Miss me a little, but not for long, and not with your head bowed low
Remember the love that once we shared, miss me but let me go

For this journey we must all take and each must go alone
Its all part of the master plan, a step on the road to home
When you are lonely and sick at heart, go to the friends we know
Laugh a little and the things we used to do, miss me but let me go

I have only slipped into the next room, death is inevitable so why should I be out of sight
Greet me to a good morning, followed by a goodnight.

It has been a privilege to say Goodbye.