Where do you even begin when trying to describe someone as remarkable as my mother-in-law, Mary John?

I first met Mary a few months into my relationship with my now wife, Hannah. By then, I’d already heard countless stories filled with warmth and laughter, but nothing could have prepared me for meeting her in person. Mary, or MJ as many knew her, was a true force of nature: vibrant, loving, quick-witted, hilariously funny, and just the right amount of feisty. She had a presence that lit up every room and a heart that wrapped around everyone lucky enough to know her.

Mary welcomed me into her family not just as a daughter-in-law, but as one of her own. I’ll always be proud to say I was her favourite and even more proud to have been loved by her.

On March 25th, Mary was rushed to hospital after a fall in her home. She had broken her hip and femur, a serious injury made even more dangerous by her pre-existing conditions: heart failure, COPD, and an essential tremor. After a high risk, seven-hour surgery and a week in intensive care, Mary fought her way back to the ward to begin a long and difficult recovery.

Over the next 77 days, Mary battled through infections, setbacks, and near-impossible odds. On nine different occasions, the doctors told my wife they didn’t expect her mum to make it through the night. But Mary, strong, stubborn, and full of fight, kept pushing through. She endured exhausting treatments and intense physiotherapy with Hannah by her side, every single day.

On May 11th, her condition worsened again. Together, as a family, we made the heart wrenching decision to begin palliative care. Even then, Mary continued to love, laugh, and bring joy to those around her. She celebrated her 76th birthday from her hospital bed, just two weeks before she passed away on June 11th.

We should have had her for so much longer.

Mary raised her daughter Hannah completely on her own. Life wasn’t easy, there were times they lived in hostels, and Mary often went without so Hannah could eat. But through every hardship, she never stopped smiling or giving her all to those she loved.

She was the kind of person who made sure no one felt alone, who filled silences with laughter, and who always had time for a story or a hug. Her kindness, her humour, and her fierce love touched so many.

Mary had a funeral plan in place that covered part of the costs, but sadly, she didn’t leave behind an estate to fund a memorial. That’s why I’m asking for your help.

We are hoping to raise £3,000 to cover the cost of a water pedestal memorial at our local crematorium, a peaceful, beautiful place where Hannah and all who loved Mary can visit and remember her.

If we’re fortunate enough to raise anything beyond that, the additional funds will go toward fulfilling Mary’s last wish: to have part of her ashes turned into memorial jewellery for Hannah and family so they can always carry her Mary close to their hearts.

Mary, we miss you more than words can say.

Your love lives on in every story we tell, every laugh we share, and every moment we remember.

Thank you for making us feel at home in your heart. We’ll carry you with us always.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for reading, and for any support you’re able to give, whether that’s a donation, a share, or simply a kind word.

With love,

Mary (Mary's daughter-in-law)