Melva BARNHAM Obituary

Mel. Thank you for your real and unconditional love and friendship. Will remember you forever. Kere Fleming x

Saddened I cannot attend today Melva. I am under the weather and for the first time in a long time, am taking the day off work. I will light a candle and raise a glass of reserve Mazurans Port in your honour. I miss you xxx

I was a little down at work tonight when I had heard from my friend that you had passed Gillian. You know I dont call you 'Melva' like the others do, as that is just the way I was first introduced to you. I first met you as a Beauty Therapist in Rimu St New Lynn some 30 odd years ago, and you kept me looking 'waxed to the max' , polished and ready to head out to play my sports like netball and touch footy. You were more than than your profession though. You have been a confidante and friend. You have listened to all my cares and woes about relationship issues etc with understanding and a patient ear, then dispensed your sage advice as you do. I love your wicked sense of humour and naughtiness. I enjoyed meeting your boyfriends who all seemed to be named 'John'. There were at least 3 of those in the time that I knew you, spanning some 30 odd years. During that period you shifted from New Lynn to Mt Albert, Whangaparoa and then settled in Red Beach Orewa. It just meant I had to travel a little further was all but I couldnt just 'pop in' like I was used to. You have shared so many of your own stories and I marvel at your resilience, patience, intelligence. What a Super Woman of strength and character. I will miss our conversations on the phone and at your home. I will miss your wonderful cooking, wine-o'clock and the laughter. You are loved by me and no doubt many others I don't know. Love to you Gillian, from your mate Theresa.