Beverley was a person who always squeezed the most out of her life as a wife, mother, friend and later as a community advocate. We saw this approach and enjoyment of life with Boyd and the family while farming Hokonui and later when they moved to Wanaka.
Whatever she did, she gave of her best.
This was witnessed in the work she done on behalf of health consumers,on local and national ethics committees- she was highly regarded and respected by colleagues across all health professions and lay persons involved. She was not afraid to ask the hard questions. Always diligent in her preparation and well informed on whatever topic was being considered
She valued all of the people she worked along the way and this was reciprocated
Whatever she participated in, it was never about her, it was always about what was best for the community she served
It was not all serious though, she had a wicked sense of humour and enjoyed getting up to mischief from time to time. An example of this was when Bev helped us participate and entertain the community, when the 'Edna' group put on a pot luck night in the Lumsden hall. This was during the dark days of farming in the late eighties. Like all of us she was not afraid to dress up and help make fools of ourselves to get people laughing, something which was desperately needed at that time.
She took on many challenges in her life, making sure that whatever the project was, large or small, the best outcomes were always the goal, and delivered to the highest standard.
Bev endured through many challenges in her life, but this last massive challenge to her health she met with stoicism, understanding and tolerance, this was helped enormously by the thoughtful and compassionate care of Peter.
Bev leaves a legacy of love, endurance, resilience. She set fine example to all of us of a life well lived. These are the memories we have of her which we will all carry into the future.
Marion Miller
Marion Miller, Invercargill
