Christine Sheldrake’s Eulogy to her Mum - August 2015
For those who don’t know me, my name is Christine, and I’m Claire’s 4th child and youngest daughter. And I want to say a few words about Mum…Claire.
Chris and her Mum, Claire
So, what can I say about my Mum in just a few words ….
There are so many wonderful memories that Peter and I and the children have shared with Mum, both in Bawley Point and in Sydney.
So I thought I would mention my most recent fondest memory of my dear Mum, and of course, it was at a party.
Mum always loved a get-together, and especially a party. Parties gave Mum the chance to wear her most recent co-ordinated outfit, which always included matching earrings and lippy. Mum would always be the first to arrive at parties, and the first to sit next to the cheese platter with a glass of wine in hand.
“Is that a cheese platter I see'“ - (L to R) Claire, Chloe and Gwen
This most recent fondest memory of Mum was at my place, and we were having lunch on our veranda with friends.
My daughter, Alyssa, announced that she was having her first child, my first grandchild, and after much celebration, I yelled out to Mum at the other end of the table, “how’s it feel to be a Great Grandma again mum?”
She replied confidently, with a glass of champers raised high, “I have always been Great” …..
The ‘GREAT’ Claire (right) with Kate
Since then I’ve had time to reflect on how great you were, Mum.
Your laughter, your humour, your caring, your empathy, your love of history and your learning of new things at such an age…and most importantly, your ability to make everyone you met feel special.
Mum has touched each and every one of us here today in some way.
So Mum, yes….
you were the greatest mother;
the greatest grandmother;
the greatest great grandmother;
a great sister;
and a great friend;
Mum, I know your spirit of greatness will live on in your grandchildren and your great grandchildren.
I love you and will miss you dearly.
The world won’t be the same without you.
Yes Mum…you were truly...Great.
Written by Chris Sheldrake in August 2015, augmented with pictures and last updated 2 September 2025