So sad to be writing these words for my beloved wife Cheryl Mary Walsh (nee Bannister).

She died in the University Hospital Coventry just before midnight on Friday 6th November 2020. Born in Colchester on 23rd September 1956, she was still a baby only 64 years old. I had the privilege of holding her in my arms as she passed. She had bravely fought cancer for several years.

Her brothers, Peter and Robert and her sister Marian still live in Colchester, together with her nieces, Anna, Lynn, Helen and Frances. Her sister in law Alison, also lives and works there.

Although Cheryl, hasn't lived in Colchester since 1978, some will remember her. She attended Philip Morant School and the went on to work in the High Street, Queen Street and Prettygate branches of Barclays Bank.

We married in Colchester Registery Office in January 1978, before my work took us away from her home town, although Cheryl often returned to visit.

Our first daughter Hazel was born in Ipswich, in 1979, our son Russell in Tonbridge in 1982, and our youngest daughter Rachel at home in Kent in 1988. All love their mum dearly and are absolutley devastated.

Our three wonderful children have in turn produced seven beautiful grandchildren, who were the very light of Cheryl's life. Jacob, Elliot, Rhys, Zinnia, Acacia, Bohden and Ivy, your Nanny loves you with all her heart.

Cheryl joined the Prison Service in 1996, and worked in various prisons until her retirement in 2015, I was so touched to read the comments from her colleagues and friends on Facebook, she was a much loved and respected person.

After retirement, we had fun. I was so lucky to spend that time with her. Travelling Europe together in our Motorhome, we saw some fantastic things and had some unbelievable experiences. Thank you Cheryl.

Even when the cancer arrived, Cheryl would not allow it to define her. We still travelled when we could, and Cheryl and I, both worked together, on a part time basis assessing staff for Prison Work.

I love you Cheryl, so much, my life seems empty now, I will miss you for ever.

Your Devoted Husband

Steve