One of Sheila’s wishes was to have trees planted in her memory. She preferred this idea to flowers at her funeral or donations to a charitable cause.
If individuals or groups would like to plant a tree in her memory, we know this is something she would have truly loved. The Woodland Trust, among other organisations, offers trees for purchase along with guidance on planting and care. However, for those who do not have the space, we wanted to provide alternative ways to honour her wishes.
At the link below, the Woodland Trust enables the dedication of trees already planted in one of their woods - a gesture we believe Mum would have warmly welcomed:
Memorial Trees: Dedicate a Tree in Memory - Woodland Trust | Woodland Trust Shop
Individuals or groups can also choose a location that suits them or is nearby. In addition, we wanted to create a dedicated area of woodland where contributions could come together - each donation adding up to a larger number of trees planted collectively in one place. For this purpose, we have chosen Longbeech North Wood in Challock, Ashford, Kent, which is relatively close to Eastry and Charlotte.
To support this collective effort in memory of Sheila:
- There will be a box at Barham Crematorium on the day of the funeral for cash or cheque donations (cheques made payable to J Dilnot Smith & Son).
- The funeral directors, J Dilnot Smith, also have a Donate in Memory page at the link below, where individuals or groups can contribute online, if they wish:
Donate in memory - J Dilnot Smith & Son Funeral Directors
We are deeply grateful for all the love, messages of support, and enquiries about donations. We believe this approach reflects Mum’s wishes and offers everyone an opportunity to remember her in a meaningful way. Thank you for your generosity and kindness.