Reader moved to compose a poem in her heartfelt tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

ON SEPTEMBER 8, 2022, Queen Elizabeth passed away,

Our world it changed forever, when we heard the news that day.

Her gentle, peaceful manner and the wisdom of her days,

Will always be remembered in so many different ways.

Your jubilee of seventy years was cause for celebrations.

History made by you, our Queen, handed on for generations.

You encouraged us when times were tough, when Covid days were here.

You told us that ‘this too will pass’; those words helped banish fear.

Your Christmas Speech was special too, we watched you every year.

Sometimes you had us laughing, or wiping away a tear.

You entertained us young and old, with Paddington by your side!

Taking that sandwich from your bag, filled us all with joy and pride!

Remembering those faithful friends, your corgis by your side,

They too will miss you very much, their mistress and their guide.

Thank you for your service, a life filled to the brim,

With thoughts of all your people, whose lives, at times, were grim.

You enjoyed a life of privilege from the first day you were born.

But that didn’t stop you thinking of the ones who were forlorn.

You were thoughtful and so gentle In your very kindly deeds.

You touched us in so many ways, you saw our wants and needs.

You reached out a hand in friendship, you took steps no one would make,

To bring peace to war-torn nations, and bridge gaps of huge heartache.

We are so sad you left us, but your job on earth is done.

For service to your people, a heavenly crown you’ve won.

Your faith in God was steadfast, your guide throughout the years,

Your crown is now a halo, so we have no need for tears.

To imagine life without you, it will be hard to do,

God has you in His care for sure, that we know is true.

Your life on earth is over, but your memory will live on.

In our hearts our Queen forever, though your smile and wave are gone.

Farewell dear Queen Elizabeth, your reign no-one’s surpassed.

We loved you and we’ll miss you, you were faithful to the last.

As we say our last goodbye, no more smiling face we’ll see.

You now live among the angels, in God’s palace eternally.

Yours faithfully,

Dympna Drumm Clarke