My sister's life was cut short by a terrible illness, but her kindness, compassion and selflessness gave light and hope to the lives of the many children she taught and to those fortunate enough to know her. Mary steadfastly put others first, never considering the implications to herself. There are many who owe her a debt of gratitude for helping them in their hour of need or for standing them on the firm ground of a secure future. Not forgetting a number of dogs (Chad in particular) that were taken from obscurity and shown the good life. She was very enthusiastic about life in general; she was fluent in French, ran an allotment with Dad and was extremely conscientious regarding her profession as an infant teacher. Keeping fit encompassed all manner of energetic pursuits such as parachuting, bungee jumping and in particular scuba diving. She made many good friends through scuba diving and will be missed at the diving club in Eccles. During our austere childhood we remained passively hostile to each other. But with the passage of time we supported each other and became very good friends. We went sea fishing together and did a lot of walking together. Two years ago, Mary and I walked Hadrian's Wall and later the Northumbrian Coast. They were great days. We celebrated my birthday in a pub at Seahouses on the coast of Northumberland. It was the best birthday I ever had. Mary has left a rich legacy, not only a daughter and stepson, so well prepared to meet the adventures and tribulations of life, but also to those who she taught and helped along the way. Perhaps on reflection the message is simple. Mary's life was a life well lived and we will miss her.