I have never really been an Ed Sheeran fan or listened to the lyrics of his songs, but this changed when I attended the funeral of Maria, the wife of my friend and work colleague Ken.
Their daughter, Angela, selected Supermarket Flowers which brought tears to my eyes, not only as a tribute for Maria, but also in memory of Jean.
I have changed the lyrics slightly, but I'm sure that Ed won't mind.
I took the supermarket flowers from the windowsill.
Threw the day old tea from the cup.
Packed up the photo album we had made.
Memories of a life that's been loved.
Took the get well soon cards and stuffed animals.
Poured the old ginger beer down the sink.
I was often told don't cry when you're down.
But, there's a tear every time that I blink.
Oh I'm in pieces it's tearing me up but I know
A heart that's broke is a heart that's been loved.
So, I'll sing Hallelujah you were an angel in the shape of their Mum
When they fell down you'd be there holding them up.
Spread your wings as you go
And when God takes you back
He'll say Hallelujah, you're home.
I fluffed the pillows, made the beds, stacked the chairs up.
Folded your nightgowns neatly in a case.
Chris said he'd drive, then put his hand on my cheek
And wiped a tear from the side of my face.
I hope that I see the world as you did cause I know
A life with love is a life that's been lived.
So I'll sing Hallelujah you were an angel in the shape of their Mum.
When they fell down you'd be there holding them up.
Spread your wings as you go, when God takes you back
He'll say Hallelujah, you're home.
Hallelujah, you were an angel in the shape of their Mum.
You got to see the persons' that they have become.
Spread your wings and I know
That when God took you back, he said, Hallelujah you're home !
Colin
01/11/2026
