Dearest Val,
It is with such sadness that I read this. How utterly devastating for you all. I am so very sorry. I absolutely adored Tony, and will always think of him as one of the great giant-hearted men in our world! He truly inspired me with his zeal, energy, incredibly magnanimity and generosity of soul. Always looking out for ways to help, or connect people, or build this world into a better place, he made a difference to so many, not least to me by way of example and inspiration. If the measure of a man is to leave the world a better place than he found it, surely Tony, in spite of all his late challenges, won out in spades!
But such great men leave very great holes, and I am so sorry for your loss, and the huge pain and sadness therein. You were such a great and fabulous team together too, (as celebrated in the painting!) I just can’t imagine how hard it all must be for you to have him no longer at your side.
I will try to make the funeral, of course, but I have to tell you now that the logistics around it are somewhat tricky, as I have commitments that day working towards my forthcoming exhibition, opening only in May, as well as then having to race back to Dorset to collect children from school etc, so try as I might I fear it may be unrealistic to make any promises. My parents were incredibly sad to hear the news as well, and I am copying them in here, just in case they haven’t learnt of the service details.
If I can’t be with you in person, I shall be so in thought, and send you all so much love, thoughts and prayers over these coming days and weeks.
With much much love and saddest condolences once again,
Arabella
Arabella Elliot nee Dorman
19th April 2024