I have many fond memories of Sharon. She was very gentle, warm and caring, and just a nice person to be around.
Sharon (Nana) and Keith (Gra Gra) looked after both of our children (Ellis & Riley) in the early years of their lives. Staying with us for a few days a week, to help with childcare. Both boys became very close to their grandparents and I truly believe they have had a hugely positive impact on their lives.
When working from home, I would often hear Sharon take the boys for a daytime nap and then chatting with them as she woke them up. I would listen to their little chats, so calm and gentle.
She would often take the boys ‘blankies’ (a real no-no for anyone else, as blankies aren’t an item to be messed with) and say “my blankie”. Even at an early age, the boys knew she was playing and it would normally end in a cuddle. Nana was the only person that could get away with that!
Even with the challenges of managing two young lads, through the terrible twos and being spirited three-nagers, Sharon could effortlessly diffuse any situation. I never heard her shout or raise her voice. So gentle, calm, caring, loving - all the traits that are also intrinsic in her daughters.
Once the boys were in bed, many evenings were spent chatting and often watching ‘University Challenge’ and ‘Only Connect’. I could never answer any questions, Catherine maybe a couple and Keith would normally get a fair few. Sharon would definitely top the score, and answer the questions while multitasking and playing games on her iPad - barely even looking up to deliver the right answer.
Back in the early noughties, I had my first date with Catherine. I distinctly remember being very impressed that Cat was texting her mum to let her know how she was getting on. I’m sure there was even some txt spk in there. Baring in mind this was in 2003, text messaging was a relatively new trend. Maybe a strange memory, but as I subsequently got to know Sharon, it was apparent that she was ahead of the times and forward thinking…and certainly the first person you would go to in the Hilton household if the Wi-Fi went down.
Sharon became a master gluten-free baker. Taking on the challenge, after Catherine was diagnosed with Coeliacs disease. Remarkably, it was impossible to tell the difference between normal wheat and gluten free equivalents, which even professional bakers struggle with. Amazing cakes, biscuits, pies, and much more.
Sharon and Keith are very family focussed. They have a wide friend network and a close family bond. I feel that I was welcomed into both groups and know that many of the fond tales of Sharon will live on through those connections.
Lots of wonderful family times spent together. You will be missed, but you are in our hearts. The girls and the boys will make sure of that.
We love you to the moon and back where ever you are xx
Matthew Grout
17th May 2024
Dust if you must - Rose Milligan
Dust if you must, but wouldn't it be better
To paint a picture, or write a letter,
Bake a cake, or plant a seed;
Ponder the difference between want and need?
Dust if you must, but there's not much time,
With rivers to swim, and mountains to climb;
Music to hear, and books to read;
Friends to cherish, and life to lead.
Dust if you must, but the world's out there
With the sun in your eyes, and the wind in your hair;
A flutter of snow, a shower of rain,
This day will not come around again.
Dust if you must, but bear in mind,
Old age will come and it mightn’t be kind.
And when you go (and go you must)
You, yourself, will make more dust.
Catherine Hilton
17th May 2024
I see your name:
On the path
On the house
On the ke ry to the door
I see your name
On the mirror
On the frame
In the centre of each eye
in the synapses of my brain
I see your name
In the life that we’ve lived
In the field
In the sky
In the birds flying by
I see your name
In my heart
In my soul
In my core
In my whole
I see your name
I was born to know you
I was born to love you
I am you
And you are me
We are the same.
Keith
14th May 2024