Boduan Sanctuary’s first woodland burial (photos by Terry Mills)
Joanna Melville led the procession from the car park, playing a lament for her father, William Melville, on her flute. His achievements as an army engineer in World War II were among his proudest memories – achievements mentioned in dispatches (represented by the oak leaf on his memorial stone) and still remembered by his surviving colleagues.
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The British Legion flag was carried before his coffin as a symbol of respect.
When we cleared the brambles before digging the grave, we discovered a tall Scots thistle – the perfect symbol for the Scotsman who was to be buried there.
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The procession arrives at the spot selected for Bill’s burial.
An informal celebration of a special life. Bill disliked formality but he loved music; so we sang the songs he used to sing when we, his daughters, were children.
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Sharing memories of a man we loved: the final goodbye.
He asked to be buried in a simple pine box; this was made by a local craftsman. We covered the coffin with a REME flag, on which we placed his medals and army beret.
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A wild rose at his head, a rowan tree at his feet.
Bill loved birds; they will sing for him here.
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The mourners leave the grave site.
Wildflowers planted and watered, they will spread across the glade.
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A peaceful resting place.
More will be added later – we continue to tend this woodland garden, transplanting the bluebells and violets that push through the paths.
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Bill’s simple headstone is made of local slate.
The yellow poppies represent his enduring love of Wales.
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The last to leave the grave
Bill’s dog Shiela. She died a year later and has been buried near her master.