It is difficult to put into words what Taid meant to our family, because he was so much more than a father-in-law or grandfather. He was someone who became part of the very fabric of our family, someone whose love, kindness, humour and presence made a difference simply by being there.
To my children, Taid was a very special person. He was their grandfather, their storyteller, their source of wisdom. The memories they have of him will stay with them throughout their lives the little moments, the conversations, the laughter, and the feeling of being loved by him.
I hope that, as they grow older, they will always know just how fortunate they were to have had him as their Taid. And I hope they will carry a little piece of him with them: his values, his stories, his sense of humour, and the love he gave so freely.
As a father-in-law, I feel incredibly grateful that our paths crossed. Families are not only built through blood; they are built through love, acceptance and the countless memories we share. Taid welcomed me into his family, and for that I will always be thankful.
There will be an enormous space left by his absence. We will miss his voice, his smile, his advice, his laughter, and all those ordinary moments that we perhaps didn't realise were so precious until now.
Love always, Emma, Gruff & Saxon
Emma Powell
24/08/2026