Veronica's sons, Steve, Dan Kirk and sister Gail, and I wish to thank every one who sent a message expressing a mutual loss. The few e-mails published below are from those who wished to talk a little more about Veronica and from some who clearly could not find the words yet managed to say so much. Thank you all. • Shane
What a blow to the TT Humanists. I first met Veronica only at the first meeting I attended (though Ilda knew her for many years). From our all too short acquaintance, it is clear to me that, apart from missing her energy and efficiency, the Association will be much poorer for the loss of a quality that is sometimes in short supply among logical thinkers - compassion. Theoretical commitment to human welfare is one thing, emotional commitment is another. Veronica put the human in humanist. • Denis
I'd hardly known Veronica, yet I grew to admire her. When she first contacted me re attending the Humanist meeting at NALIS, she was so effusive about it, and about my acceptance. I found her so excited about the organisation, and seemingly about life, I'd never believe she was terminally ill. What a strong person. My deepest sympathy to you, and to all those who are affected by her passing. I shall try to attend the farewell at your home, but in the event I don't make it, please understand I'll be there in spirit, celebrating the life of this extraordinary woman. • Raffique
Kirk, Your mother is an extremely special person to me . I shall hold her memory very dear to my heart. I have been out of touch and was not aware that she had been ailing so this comes as a shock. She helped to make it possible for many of us to explore and express our talents and bring them to fruition today. I believe in the higher plane, where there is no pain again... • Remy
Although I only met Veronica two years ago, it is as if I had known her all my life. She had a sincerity in the way she met and treated with people. I always looked forward to see her at our humanist meetings. I used to call her 'my english friend'. Surprisingly, we always seemed to have the same opinion on the major issues that was discussed. I say surprisingly because I consider myself a 'teaser when it comes to debating and I will argue against a position which I myself hold in order to reinforce or justify my beliefs. Vanda and I will miss Veronica profoundly. • Philip
I only met Veronica at the said Humanist meeting you refer to, and my only regret is that I had not had the pleasure of her acquaintance prior. From what I know of her, she was a beautiful person with the gift of real compassion, whose heart never ran out of room to add another in her kindest regards and intentions. With fond affection. • Marisa
I just wanted to say what a wonderful evening it was last Friday to remember Veronica, and celebrate her life. Such a special lady, and it was good to see so many people whose lives she touched come to honour her life. She will be very much missed, especially by you and Kirk, and I suppose the only consolation you have whilst the pain is so raw is that she is not longer suffering. I hope you will both be able to remember all the great and happy times in-between the grieving. • Penny
We wish you strength to cope with this sad, irreparable loss and hope that you, during rough moments, will find comfort in the happy memories of your time together. Veronica will be missed during the meetings in your welcoming, warm home and we definitely will miss her prudent but plain way of talking while taking part in the discussions. • Lizeth & Hielke
It is with great sadness that we learn of Veronica's death. As for so many others, she made herself a part of our lives in a very short time. We know that the memories of many happy times that you have shared over the years will sustain you and her boys at this tough time. Our thoughts are with you--from the other side of the world in Perth, Australia. • Jane & Lenn
Shane, my heartfelt sympathy! Veronica was so dedicated and gentle - you will retain rich memories of your life with her, to carry on her humanist purpose. In solidarity. • Yvonne
i'm deeply saddened to hear. it's a small place and now i love it less. chin up, bro. no bullshit, if i can do anything, run an errand, drop off a roti or two, shout me. take care. • baz
Shane, We are with you in this. With very fond memories of a warm and sincere humanist who has left us all too soon. • Geoff
I found her passionate, funny and bright, and think you very fortunate to know her. She left the strongest impression on me at the first meeting at The Review that I attended when she said the word "fucking" during one of her contributions. It's a small and insignificant thing really, but my interest in what you both had to say increased considerably at that point. I share in the sense of loss too, not as profound as yours, but no less real. I'm gonna quit while I'm ahead cause I'm not too good at these things. • Stephen
I never met Veronica in person but we had chatted on the phone when she welcomed me to the humanist association. She was warm and friendly and I'm really sorry I never met her in person. • John
I am saddened by her loss knowing that she was always kind to me when I visited. Keep strong knowing that she is happy wherever she is. • Vindra
We would be honoured to be there on Thursday. • Emile
Hang in there buddy we all have to face these times. Will be there on Thursday. • Darrin
I am shocked and very sorry to learn of Veronica’s goodbye. • Martin
She made such a strong impression on me .... with her imaginative ideas. We cannot imagine what you are experiencing at this time. • Nicole
Honoured that "Vron" was part of our family - privileged to have known and loved her. • Doone
(Thank you also to all who sent in cards with great messages but could not be published in this medium easily.)