Keith Oxley was my first cousin, the first son of my mother Helen's brother, Walter Oxley and of Winnifred Oxley. I do not remember many years when Keith was not involved in my life in some way or other. My mum and I used to go to visit his mum and his brother David in Croydon when I was a little girl. His dad, Walter, had died before I was born. As I grew, Keith always showed an interest in my life and how I was doing. He was interested in my career path as a teacher (and later, as a Salvation Army Officer / Minister) and he gave me away at my wedding (his daughter, Sarah was my bridesmaid). When I moved to Canada in 1987, he took me and my 6 month old son, Timothy to Heathrow Airport. When I arrived in Canada, Keith kept in touch and encouraged me to become internet savvy and to keep connected that way. We did. First by Skype and then by Facebook Messenger. Keith and his late wife Cynthia were visiting me in Hanover, Ontario, Canada when Cynthia noticed the first signs of what turned out to be M.S. What a devoted husband he was during the long years of that dreadful disease. I saw that first hand on a few visits that I made from Canada to England between 1989 and 2015. Keith ... you have played a significant part in my life (and that of my late mother, Helen (Oxley) Marshall). I have missed talking to you during the past year, but I will remember you always. Thank you for your care and concern for me and my family. And now there awaits you a home in Heaven ... You have "fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. Now there is in store for you the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge will award to you on that day ... and also to all who have longed for His appearing." (2 Timothy 4:7-8) Miriam (Marshall) Stevens
Miriam Stevens
22/06/2021
