I am sharing this blog post today on behalf of my good friends Clifford and Shirley George, who want to share the story of a good friend they just lost. I am so moved by this story of friendship and dedication, and our deepest sympathies go out to Debbie Bray’s family and friends. The following are Shirley’s words, and a poem by Clifford. God bless.
“Here is a picture of a good friend of ours, Debbie Bray, with one of her favourite ponies, Black Brandy, the stallion. Debbie passed away on Friday, March 22nd after a long battle with cancer. Debbie lived in Harbour Grace; she had three children – a daughter and two sons – and one grandson.
Debbie was a great advocate for the Newfoundland Pony. She was on the society’s committee for several years and had several Newfoundland Ponies herself, trying to keep the breed going. She always had a smile on her face even though the last few years she was always battling cancer. Although it won in the end it didn’t take her spirit.
The photo “Debbie Bray on the Feather” is one of Debbie and her friend having a picnic on the “Feather” in Harbour Grace. The Feather is where ponies are placed for the summer months.
Also attached is a poem that Clifford wrote about his friendship with Debbie and memories of the long road they travelled trying to help save the Newfoundland Pony.”
THE FEATHER LADY
Yes, Debbie, I’m leaving a message, give me a call
Hello Debbie, it’s me again. How many ponies did you say are left in Newfoundland now? Can you call me back please?
Yes, Debbie, forgive me for calling again, but I’m waiting for you to discuss ……., you know what, same as always, me again.
Debbie, I’m calling again, I know you’re not home, I know you won’t be calling me back. The ponies will miss you, I will miss you. That loving chatter, your voice, also music to the grove.
Ponies playing by the tall white spruce in wintertime. Moonlight tunes whispering amongst the branches.
Ponies chewing and grinding hay. Hay you gave them from your cradled arms.
Tunes from the sea, wind touching the long yellow grasses at the feather. The longing tune of death reaches out to you, you beautiful feather lady.
I won’t be calling you again Debbie; this is my last message to 596-7929.
I love you Debbie.
Cliff
A beautiful tribute. Thank you for sharing it.
Thank you for the comment. It was more than our pleasure to share.
Clifford and Shirley it means so much to know how you both felt about Debbie but the feeling was mutual one of the last things Debbie wanted to do was visit for a yarn and a bowl of Shirley’s home made soup but never got to do it May God Bless You Both
God bless you and your family – we’ll see that Clifford and Shirley see your beautiful comment.
Just read your poem about my cousin and I wanted to tell you how beautif;ul I thought it was
Sharon Bray
Thank you for your comment – we are deeply sorry for your family’s loss, and grateful to Clifford George for sharing her story and this poem