Carol Dean was a force to be reckoned with, more cosmopolitan and savvy than the big smiling rural boys from Lincolnshire, but Peter, the Oxford educated intellectual of the family was her perfect foil. They were an accomplished metropolitan couple, comfortable abroad, and memorably entertaining us one summer in KL. Debating with Carol was always challenging:coming from her background in banking, she was rigorous and logical in argument, but pragmatic and realistic in contrast with my rather optimistic and hopeful, socially liberal outlook, working in the health service. It is always a shock and rocks us to the core when someone dies so young. As I've said before, it's as if the table has lost a leg, and although all legs are equal, Carol's vitality and energy was a driving force in the family. Peter has worked tirelessly these last two years, and on his broad shoulders, supported and cared for Carol and the boys. In time her legacy will be seen, as Charlie and Jamie recover and flourish, becoming their own men, but still Carol's sons. With much love Tim

Dear Carol was such a bright spark. There was nothing small about this lady except her stature. She had the biggest smile, the brightest mind and the loudest voice. She never shied from giving her opinion and arguing her case and if I were in a battle I'd want her on my side. The last time I saw her the sun was shining. She was in bed but sitting up watching TV, eating but not saying very much. I was so sad to see her so ill and just as I left I said 'love you' and she said 'I love you too' . We'll miss you on our girls nights out Carol but we'll have a glass of Merlot for you. Much love, Kay xxx.

Carol was always very interested and easy to talk to. We had some great conversations about what it was like to live abroad. I'll miss her. Our thoughts are with Peter, Charlie and Jamie. Sending our love. Laura and Jake