Photo: Randolph and Catherine Churchill, on board the Queen Mary off Long Beach, California, 26 May 2016
Those in the Churchill world were saddened to hear of the passing of Catherine Churchill, Randolph’s wife, companion and helpmate.
I really only got to know Randolph after Martin became ill, and saw Catherine a few times with Randolph. Her warm, genuine smile lit up the room and her gentleness, kindness and interest was palpable.
The International Churchill Society quoted Randolph in his tribute to his wife: “Catherine was and always will be my rock. She was my safe harbour and best friend. She was the constant sunshine in my life. She was the zest and happiness of each day. I always called her ‘Bears,’ and she gave me the constant warmth and hugs of a loving bear. She gave me the most wonderful happy family. For me, Catherine will live on in [our children] Serena, Zöe, Alice, and John. They all share her happy and engaging disposition, love of life, and care of others. Catherine was the one and only love of my life. I will always look to the stars and see her on a distant tropical island, with a hibiscus in her hair, a bird of paradise in her hand, and a smile on her face. She will always be in my heart.”
How lucky they were to have found each other. May Randolph and his children find strength and support in the days and months ahead. May her memory be a blessing.
