Merry Christmas in heaven, Gran.

I have wonderful memories of Phyllis, I will particularly remember her lovely smile. Rest on peace Phyllis, Love from Jean Williams

It’s so sad to have to write this but Phyllis was much loved; we were always part of the family and have felt close all our lives. The relationship was based upon Kate and my mothers’ enduring and deep friendship. Ifor’s mum, Auntie Kate, was my godmother and Ifor has been like a cousin to me. The happiest days of my childhood were spent in Gwersyllt. My mother died when I was nine and after that I spent a good part of the school holidays with Ifor’s family. I reckon I have known Phyllis almost as long as Ifor has. She was that lovely young girl he started courting when they were teenagers. His dad, George Jones, didn’t approve of Ifor distracting himself when he had studies to do and was not encouraging at first. When George went to work on nights in the colliery, Auntie Kate would watch the bus disappear then let Phyllis and Ifor into the parlour, from the youth club over the road. I remember when they were newlyweds, watching her putting make-up on in the mirror in the kitchen at Ewood Grove. I was only a teenager and said, “You don’t need that now - you’ve got him!” - and they have been together ever since. I can still hear her lovely Welsh voice. We were always made welcome and Phyllis was a superb hostess. We spent many happy times together. I remember playing trains with Mark Pennant, aged seven, in Caergwrle and a little girl of three walking over the tracks displacing the wagons and carefully placed coaches. Mark’s reaction must have made her think that she should learn where to put her feet - and perhaps started her dance career! Phyllis was a lovely mum; they were great kids and have turned into wonderful adults with delightful families of their own. When Ann and I had our own family, I remember Ifor and Phyllis taking us to Snowdon. Ifor had promised our children he’d take them up the highest mountain in Wales - but the combined fare for all seven of us was steeper than the mountain! Ifor protested and expressed his disappointment. We left the station booking office and had a picnic in the car park instead. Then the manager came over and offered us a special price, so we did go up there in the end. There are so many happy memories that Phyllis leaves with us. She will be sadly missed. She was more than just a friend; she was a significant part of our lives and this pandemic means we can’t say goodbye properly but our thoughts are with you. What a wonderful family. We love you all. Ann, Mark and Susan send their love and condolences.