My mum moved from Cornwall to Yate, just down the road from us in 2009 after we lost my dad in 2008 and it was great to have her so close. She picked Beth and Thomas up from school on a Thursday and cooked their tea and helped with homework and when I got home it was to a clean kitchen, cup of tea and my favourite dinners.

She repaired all the holes in tights, sewed on brownie and scout badges and was always helping the kids with their art projects...

Mum joined art classes in Winterbourne in 2012 and they were the highlight of her week. She had very strong opinions on what colours and pictures she would paint with that and everyone knew which subjects she would paint.

She adored her Grandchildren Thomas, Beth, Evie and James and loved reading stories and spending time with them. She is very proud of them all and I know she'll be watching over them with Dad.

Mum died on 6 July after a short battle with cancer. From the terminal diagnosis on 30 April she insisted she would not go into hospital and would die in her own home on her terms. So much so that this funeral was booked and paid for within 2 weeks of finding out she was only with us for a few more months. Everything was organised and we had a long list of instructions on what she would and wouldn't do and what needed to be done. I now know where I get my love of organising.

Right up until the end she fought and thanks to the care of Marie Curie Nurses and St Peter's Hospice she died at home, with dignity, smelling of Chanel. I will never forget the care and support they gave to mum and me and Dan through some horrible times.

Mum, you weren't only my mum you were my friend. I shall miss our trips to the theatre, cinema and meals out, sharing our books, our girls trips away and most of all I shall miss just picking up the phone and telling you about my day. Say hi to Dad for me.