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My Nan |
My Nan, Ivy Walker, was not just a figure in my life, but the greatest influence that shaped my upbringing and values.
She passed away on the 24th of May 1999 at 82 years of age. Far too young for me.
This is my small tribute to her.
Ivy Collins was born in Birkenhead, Merseyside, England in 1917. She served in the ATF during the War and travelled around England. She met and married a Naval Chief Petty Officer, Bert Walker (who served on the HMS Prince of Wales and survived the sinking).
Her first job was as an usherette in a Cinema in Birkenhead, but after the War, she became a Chef. She made the best cakes, scones, and pastries I've ever had.
Later, she opened her little wool shop on Greenwood Lane, around the corner from her house in Liscard, Wallasey. The shop was called Ivy's and sold wool, knitting patterns, cloth, cotton, etc. Ivy was well-known and well-loved, and her shop was the centre point for many people to stop and catch up. Nothing ever daunted her. I remember the story of a little boy who ran into her shop one day screaming. His eye was hanging out on his cheek! My Nan just popped it back in and called for an ambulance. The boy ended up being fine.
She had four children: Lesley (my mum), Donald, Jeanette and David. Donald died in his twenties. She also lost her husband, Bert, in 1979. She remained a strong, graceful woman with a warm wit and a lovely sense of humour. One time, whilst shopping, she came across a lady who seemed all flustered at the side of the road. When my Nan asked if she could help, the lady asked if she could see her across the road. My Nan did, and the lady thanked her and said she would understand when she got older. My Nan asked her how old she was, "67", she said. My Nan walked off, chuckling as she was 80 at the time!
She has instilled those qualities into her family, and we are all the better for it.
She was also a poet and always urged me to "speak properly", "read books" and to master the English language. I'm sure this explains why I not only became a thorough bookworm and did well at English but led to where I am today, using language and voice to bring stories to life.
Her absence has left a void that can never be filled. All of us greatly miss her.
I'm also eager to connect with anyone who may have known my Grandfather, Bert Walker. Your memories and stories could help us paint a more complete picture of his life.
He served as a chief petty officer aboard HMS Prince of Wales. He survived the sinking but died in 1979 when I was relatively young.
This was the speech I gave at Nanny's funeral.
It was the first time I'd ever had to give such a challenging speech.
It was the first time I'd ever had to give such a challenging speech.
