Testimonial

On her 85th birthday Phyllis received the following very warm and heart felt message from their long standing friends Helen and Paul, which is testament to Phyllis’ loyalty and character.

‘From super Mum of four boisterous boys to matriarch of a wonderful big family, we salute you and have always admired your drive and determination. We have treasured our friendship with you over forty five years and know that in David you have found your perfect life companion.’

It is so very obvious to me, having shared the special experience of writing Phyllis’ biography, that Phyllis and David are absolutely dedicated to each other. It was a poignant moment when we spoke of when Phyllis happily left her work as a children’s nurse—where she was highly regarded and skilled—to follow David and live a sometimes harsh and difficult life on the land.

She never questioned her decision as she knew she had found true love and a good strong man with solid values that they both shared. Observing how Phyllis and David interact, it is clear that their love has lasted the test of time and it is a joy to see the consideration and care that they extend to each other.

Phyllis has experienced adversity, which for others may have presented as a challenging misfortune, but again displaying her character, she did not allow her circumstances to adversely affect her. To the contrary she accepted that things ‘were what they were’ and moved on to create a beautiful family in a new country, which has to be admired.

My experience with Phyllis and David has been a delight and it is very special to see their relationship and love as strong as ever over 56 years of marriage.