EULOGY VIRTUES

Both my mother and I were born in South Australia.

She was the third daughter of Ernest and Dorothy Walsh; her father was a Baptist Minister. Mum was many things: a wife, writer, harp player, auntie, poet, gardener, homemaker, teacher, seamstress, cook, historian, bodyboarder, grandmother, social justice champion, church volunteer, Rotarian, knitter, author, playwright, animal lover, community leader and public speaker.

In her life, Mum fought for nuclear disarmament, the environment and refugee children in detention. She had a brilliant bullshit meter and was deeply saddened by recent life events - like the uncovering of the child sexual abuse sickness that plagued the Church. Mum was horrified by the political rise of so-called leaders, like the hopelessly 'self-serving Morrison' and the dispassionate and 'always uninspiring' Dutton.

Mum's journey through this world was guided by eulogy virtues, not resume virtues, which these days are a rare thing. I never saw my Mum's resume because she couldn't be bothered with such a thing.

Mum led with her heart and fought for social justice her whole life. She loved her family unconditionally, looked out for the underdog and always strived to serve the greater good.

Mum was never depressed or afraid.

Why?

Because she didn't seek recognition or praise for her acts of kindness; instead, she found joy in knowing that she had made a positive difference in another's life.

Mum did not fear death.

Last week, still lucid and on life support, Mum was happy to die. A nurse from the amazing medical team at the Epworth Hospital, who had 10 years of ICU experience, commented to me how rare it was to see such courage in a terminal patient. The nurse shared that so many patients cling to whatever life is left, eventually becoming unconscious and leaving others to make the final call.

Mum's quiet strength, frugal life, and moral compass guided her actions, and she showed me that living a courageous life of meaning and purpose requires much more than building an impressive resume or amassing wealth or possessions.

Mum's life was an inspiration to so many. As she takes her rest with the angels, her impact will continue to resonate with all who had the privilege of knowing her.