A 96-year-old Herefordshire man has paid a loving tribute to his beloved late wife by writing and publishing a book in her memory.
Bill Edwards moved into the Brockington House Care Community with his wife Jill in July 2024, but Jill died sadly just a month later.
Understandably grieving for his wife of 68 years, Bill decided to occupy his mind by writing a memoir of his life and career.
That book, entitled ‘The Life and Times of a Herefordshire Country Boy, has now been published and chronicles his entire life, including growing up on a farm in the country, his career as a chartered accountant, his family, holidaying with Jill and moving to Brockington House. It also contains photographs, drawings, cartoons and caricatures drawn by Bill’s friend Judy, who is a commercial artist and author.
“I have always talked about writing a book but it was Jill’s death which spurred me to actually do it because it helped to take my mind off losing her but I also wanted to do something to pay tribute to her as well,” Bill explains.
“My greatest fortune in life was to meet Jill who was a loyal and loving wife, mother and grandmother and I am happy to be able to dedicate this book to her memory.”
Bill, who lived in Stoke Lacy between Hereford and Bromyard, had the official launch of his book at BrockingtonHouse on 20th August with his family (he has two children and three grandchildren) and friends present.
He has had 150 copies of the book printed and they are being sold at Brockington House and in the following other venues in the local area – Timothy & Birch in Bridge Sollers; The Hop Pocket in Worcester; Newton Court in Leominster, Food for All Bookshop/Tourist Information Centre in Bromyard.
“I am just looking to recoup the printing costs of the book, but I hope people are interested in buying it and reading my story,” adds Bill.
“It’s something I am very proud of and which can be passed down through my family so different generations can read it as well.”
Shann Thomas, Home Director of Brockington House Care Community, said: “We are honoured that Bill chose to have the official launch of his book at Brockington House.
“Since moving to the home, Bill has become loved by staff and his fellow residents alike and there are already plenty of people queuing up to read his book.”
