Memories of Tarvin- Final Instalment

Memories of Tarvin by Tony Jenkins

I had never set foot in the house next door to Mrs Johnson, number 78, but I decided to knock to thank her for informing me by letter about "Auntie Connies" funeral.
Mrs Mayers had arrived in Tarvin from Gateshead about the same time as myself. She was 24 and just married, but I cannot recall ever speaking to her. Mrs Mayers had been "in Service" for a wealthy family, she was very good at caring for people. Her history fascinated me.
When Auntie Connie died I began to visit Olive and Sam Mayers who were in their eighties at that time. I cycled from Liverpool to Tarvin at least once a month for many years. I began to know all the family including their daughter and three grandchildren. Sam became housebound in his late eighties, I often sat with him while Olive went with her daughter to Chester.
I was taken aback on one visit when Olive said "I was like a son to her," yet I must confess I liked them very much. Olive always gave me a meal when I arrived.
Eventually Olive died and I came to visit Sam regularly. Sam was born in the house, number 78, it was very sad when they took him to hospital in Chester. I am sure he would have wished to die in his home. His funeral at St. Andrews was memorable to me. They sang "All Things Bright and Beautiful" because Sam grew many flowers. In fact that was his life – selling flowers; he wasn't wealthy but he was happy.
I hope you have enjoyed this short recollection of my life and experiences in Tarvin
Most sincerely
Anthony Jenkins