Miladinovsti says “Goodbye…”

On Saturday the 3rd March the people of Miladinovsti held a farewell service in the Village Church. Sue’s family had only intended to follow her instructions and have her cremated in Sophia. However, the Mayor and the provincial priest insisted that something be held for her. He pointed out that Sue had raised substantial money for the restoration of the Church and that all wished to say, farewell and thank you.

With Hristina’s help I posted flyers around the Village to inform everyone that there would be a public viewing. As is the tradition, a poster was also fixed to the gate at 16 Pirin Street:

I was told there was no need to organise flowers as the tradition was to bring them. All we had to do was provide some lollies  –  a little sweet so that people could taste and remember some of the sweetness of Sue’s life.

The day was icey cold with a clear bright sun shining. The newly renovated Church was consecrated late in 2011 and it was the last “social” event that Sue attended before becoming seriously ill. It looked wonderful:

PHOTO: Elizabeth Mercer ( Sue’s neice)

Community members said their goodbyes and even the gypsies came.   Very quickly Sue’s coffin was filled with flowers and many of them snowdrops  –  the first flowers of Spring.

There was present pathos, humour, great sadness and the strong sense of community that so endeared the village to Sue  –  and Sue to the Village people.  Sue would have written it up on her Blog with the incisive wit and observations that have made an-aussie-in-bulgaria famous throughout the World.

Posted by her sister, Jillian