TRACY ALMOND

I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to Tracy's children, partner, beloved family and friends. Tracy was an absolute treasure. It was the honour of my life to have been her friend. She touched the lives of so many with her kindness, positivity and infectious enthusiasm. Certainly, she left an indelible mark on mine. The pain of her loss is indescribable. This is compounded by the fact that she was a beaming ray of sunlight. Words cannot describe how much Tracy did for others. Tracy was a selfless, exceptional human being. I will miss our daily conversations and Tracy's beautiful smile that quite literally lit up my entire day. Tracy was a rarety in this world of ours, her bravery and fortitude is something to be marvelled at. She was a precious diamond radiating light among all in her midst, taking nothing but always giving. Words fail me when I attempt to recall my debt and gratitude to Tracy throughout my college and university years. The truth is I will never be able to repay what she did for me. She was always leaping out of her chair to help me and never once complained. Not only was she an incredible librarian, she was a pure soul who went out of her way to assist others without a moment's hesitation. There is a huge void in my heart that can never be filled. I never got the opportunity to say thank you for all those years of friendship. It was the greatest honour and privilege of my life to have known Tracy. The hardest part is saying 'was', because in my mind Tracy's still sitting with her book and a cup of coffee, she's still running up and down the library stairs and she's still telling me to watch that literature programme she recorded. Here are a few lines I have composed in loving memory of my beloved friend:

O my most bounteous joy,
My warrior friend
Thy kindness wrapped the air in thy enveloping warmth.
O my most grievous loss,
My rare diamond
Who asked for nought
But gave, only ever gave

Lots of love and hugs to the family

R.I.P Tracy