When I visited in March ‘23 I was honored to be included in U Joe’s birthday dinner at the Indian buffet (they clearly didn’t realize how much his grandsons could eat!). Unusually, A Genny then went off to Eastbourne so I had a few days with him alone, which had NEVER happened before in my 59 years. I’ve always been besotted with my godmother Genny but it was then that I fully understood what a legendary human she had married: simply the best person I’ve ever known (besides my own hubby). When St.Jon and I visited in June ‘24 it was a vacation, but one that coincided with Joe hospitalized for infection. So that time we visited Genny alone, and when Joe returned home he was not quite himself. But he recovered until a recurrence in Nov, from which he didn’t recover. After much debate, my brother Tim and I arranged to bring our own somewhat ailing father Bosco to celebrate Uncle Joe’s life. Little could we know that our Dad would pass a mere two months later. Bosco was always in his element visiting the UK where he loved time with his sisters and numerous DeLord McDermott and Moniz nieces and nephews. But Uncle Joe was his number one sidekick, the oldest witness to Bosco’s life and one who was unfailingly kind, generous and wise. In turn, we all felt so welcomed and cared for by Genny and Joe, an incredible couple who raised some of my favorite people in the world. I cannot believe these two giants are gone, but in Bosco’s final minutes (with Tim and my mom Hazel present) I thanked him for everything, said we would take care of Mom and each other, and that his work on Earth was done and he was free to go. Finally, I said that Uncle Joe was waiting with color coded maps of the nearest pubs in Heaven where Nana Papa, Theresa, Zita, U Peter Desmond and many other comrades await. I honestly believe that’s what did it! Bosco simply wanted to hang out with Joe again, so off he went. In this mutually sad time it gives me so much comfort to imagine them together. Sending love always to you dear A Genny, Cor Nev Steph Jer and all your loved ones who are also extremely wonderful, Joe’s light reflected in each and all of you. Xoxoxoxoxoxoxo Karen 💕

Dear A Genny Children Corinne, Neville, Stephanie & Jeremy Grandchildren: Jo, Daniel Jamie, Maria, Jessica. Anna, Ben, Isabella Our heartfelt condolences, thought and prayer are with you at this sad time. May God give you strength and peace. Lots of Love and Blessing Ronnie, Adrina, Cameron, Tristan, Alicia and Stan and Evelyn your 1st cousin xx

Dear Auntie Genny and Family, you all know me as the brash nephew who is never at a loss for words but am struggling with this one because our beloved Uncle Joe simply was always there. My first memory of him is of you and he taking us into your home 50 years ago when we were in transit in the bewildering emigration from Kenya to US. From then and for the decades that followed, uncle Joe’s patient and through guidance—usually with a file to back it up—eased every visit to London, and his playful spirit and wit had us always perpetually smiling. We will always carry him in our heart and in our prayers. All our very best.