A death in the Family

[Byll]

I am hurt and numb, but I feel you should know. Our Lesley (Devondancer) and her husband Roland were killed in an auto accident this morning, in Devonshire, UK - while on their way to church. There was a third occupant of the car, who was uninjured. Lesley's sister, Philippa, was told by that person that Lesley seemed to have a heart attack, Roland tried to help her, and the car impacted a tree. I have lost my best friend and her incredible husband, and we have all lost a light.

Many of you may remember Lesley as the nurse who was attacked by a deranged patient. Her injuries necessitated a new heart, new shoulder, and caused severe brain damage. Lesley was one of the smartest, most creative, and most spiritual persons I have ever known. I have been honored to be able to communicate with her at least twice daily, for many years.

A few years ago, she and I co-authored a little song, based on a poem and a melody line she gave me as a Christmas gift. My daughter and I performed the song, and recorded it in my studio, as a surprise gift to Lesley.

That recording can be found at: https://sites.google.com/site/chiffychristmas/home
It is #13.

This has not sunk in yet to me. Remember Lesley and Roland in your thoughts and prayers, please.

Byll

[mutepointe]

I did not know the circumstances that caused her heart transplant. We had corresponded by snail mail. She was like that. My heart is heavy but she has obtained her reward.

[jim stone]

'Parting is all we know of heaven,
And all we need of Hell.' Emily Dickinson

Sincere Condolences.

[MTGuru]

Byll, what a terrible loss to yourself, and to the community here who followed the extraordinary 132 page "Devondancer update" thread with such interest.

Heartfelt condolences and sadness from myself and the board moderators.

[benhall.1]

Awful. Sympathies to the family, and to their friends, including you, Byll, and all here. It is sad news indeed.

[Doug_Tipple]

Heartfelt condolences and sadness from myself and the board moderators.

and from forum members like myself who read the Devon dancer thread and felt close to Lesley and Roland.

[Denny]

*sigh*

thank you Byll

they were very special people

I too will miss them

[Feadoggie]

Byll, thank you for sharing the sad news. I am truly devastated. I just can't express ... really, I can't. I pray they find peace.

Feadoggie

[Dale]

This board has gone on long enough now for us to see marriages and children and joys and sorrows. People coming and going. Changing in all kinds of ways. One of the most memorable chapters was the long story of a terrible illness and a courageous struggle to regain health. Now it comes to this sad, sad ending. We'll remember this couple and we'll hold family and friends in our thoughts and prayers.

[Redwolf]

So, so sad to hear this! She and Roland were truly rays of light in this sad world.

Redwolf

[emmline]

The song is lovely, and a good way to remember them.

[jileha]

What sad news!

The story of these two incredible people surely has touched everybody's heart.

It might be a slight solace that these two, who were so devoted to each other, died together. I think it would have been very difficult for one of them to stay behind alone.

They won't be forgotten.

[Innocent Bystander]

Ochone! I am so sorry. Condolences, Byll, and to all here.

[Byll]

Lesley's sister asked that I let you know that the funeral for Lesley and Roland will be held tomorrow morning. It will be a small affair, for family, only.

I thank each and every one of you for your kind words. In life, Lesley did not plough very wide - but she plowed very, very deep... I miss them both.

Byll

[Redwolf]

What sad news!

The story of these two incredible people surely has touched everybody's heart.

It might be a slight solace that these two, who were so devoted to each other, died together. I think it would have been very difficult for one of them to stay behind alone.

They won't be forgotten.

I was thinking that as well. I remember how lost and bereft Roland was during Lesley's illness (and am still so proud of how this community embraced him). If there's one bright note in all this sorrow, it's that neither had to endure the loss of the other.

I'll play my best reel today in loving memory of Devondancer and her beloved.

Redwolf