Dear Esmé, My family was blessed to know you. You and Robin were part of a small band of faithful Catholics which built strong foundations for the ‘Mass of Ages’ in Johannesburg. This spirited little band did great things: it provided spiritual and financial support for the Tridentine Rite; supported less well-off families in all ways; hosted Archbishop Lefebvre and took his counsel for growing the Faith and Rite in SA; supported young vocations and seminarians at SSPX seminaries; diligently spring-cleaned and baked arduously for countless fundraising efforts to support the Mass, the priests, and eventually the school; it formed (the women, that is) a little catering unit that did more fundraising by undertaking the cooking for many northern suburb dinner parties; with a little irony the ladies – including my mum - called themselves ‘Trad Cats’. I remember once, when you ‘reported’ back, with my mum, you both kept giggling hysterically at something – but wouldn’t tell me what…! I also remember your - and Robin’s - limitless generosity: when my mum was ill with cancer you helped her, and me and my family - we were spread across the UK, Europe and Southern Africa - by taking her to her weekly radiotherapy sessions. I had come back from Paris for a short time. Your help meant I could work during the day, and look after her at night. You and Robin took her for tea at the country club after each session. She enjoyed this so much, and she remembered it often and fondly. You always asked how else you might help. It was lovely to see you again in September 2019 – the same warmth and gentleness; the same Catholic steadfastness. You spoke warmly and happily of your many grandchildren. Your faith from that little Tridentine Rite ‘start-up’ in Johannesburg 30-odd years ago had now spread across the globe. Requiescat in pace et in paradisum deducant te Angeli et Martyres.

Esmé stands out in my memories as a beautifully kind and positive family friend. When we Lawler’s came to visit South Africa in 1989, Esmé picked us up at the airport and welcomed us back after a decade away in North America. Despite my jet lag, I felt her love for me and the Lawlers from knowing me in childhood; I felt very blessed. Then when I came back to South Africa in 1994 to visit my grandad and found he’d passed away during my trip over, I remember Esmé again being a comfort and helper. Rest In Peace, dear “Auntie” Esmé. Condolences to Peter, Steven and Nicole.

Dear Esme, I have been thinking of you today. Somehow we managed to keep in touch over the years and even had the odd visits whilst you and Robin were still living here. I shall miss you and will think of you often. Rest in peace now Es. Valerie Valerie