This is the eulogy so beautifully said by Colleen Close at Pat's memorial service.
"Hello, my name is Colleen Close. Pat Reed was a good and kind friend to me as she was to so many people and a devoted and loving mother, daughter and sister and grandmother.
She possessed a heart of gold, an infectious laugh, and an indomitable spirit, even in the face of many adversities.
I first met Pat when I needed a caregiver for my children, Andrew and Christie, nearly 34 years ago. Pat's daughter Lorna and Christie were close in age and looked a lot alike back then and Pat called them "me bookends". Over the years Pat and I became fast friends and I learned what a special woman this Geordie gal was. And make no mistake; she may have been born in Canada and returned to live here as an adult but having grown up in Wallsend (near Newcastle) "Ee, she was ever a Geordie".
Pat was a passionate soul and loved to collect things. Years ago she collected owls; figures of owls, pictures of owls, stuffed owls, etc. Then came armies of snowmen which covered every surface of her home at Christmas.
But her most treasured collection by far was her Elvis memorabilia. Outside of Graceland, I doubt there is a larger collection in existence and Pat could well have opened her own museum. She was one of Elvis' most fervent fans and I hope when she finally meets him he'll say (forgive me) "Thank you, Thank you very much"
Pat loved a party and enjoyed having people over to celebrate. Everyone was welcome, whether for birthdays, Christmas, or, I think her favourite, Hallowe'en. She loved to dress in costume and decorated to the hilt. What enthusiasm she possessed.
Pat also loved to knit and what an accomplished knitter she was. Whenever a baby was born, out would come the needles and wool and she would produce a beautiful little cardigan, hat and booties, preferably in pale green as that was Pat's favourite colour. I still have the little garments she so lovingly made for my family.
Pat always looked out for others and was there when they needed her. New people to her neighbourhood were quickly welcomed in and found a new friend in Pat. Once there was a fire in one of the townhouses and when it was safely under control, out went Pat with tea for the firemen. That was typical of Pat. She was a people person. I'm sure that's just the tip of the iceberg as there are so many more examples of her generosity.
I said that Pat was passionate and her greatest passion was her family. How she adored her children, grandchildren and her wonderful sister, brother and mother. She loved all her family and friends and we are all so fortunate to have shared in the life of Pat Reed. God bless you Pat. We'll miss you.
