Fly Away, Butterfly...

You may remember my completed Red Spotted Purple Butterfly project. This was the result of the stumpwork class I took with the Royal School of Needlework when they brought tutors from England to Kentucky in 2018. That's where I met our tutor, Owen Davies.

This was the class photograph we had taken at the end of our week-long session. Not only did we love Owen, his teaching style, and his sense of humor (once we got him to loosen up a bit), we forged new friendships with each other over that week, too. It was a truly memorable seven days together.

This is the group photograph of all the tutors who traveled to the United States to share their talents and expertise with those of us who attended for the one or two week sessions. 

I was devastated to learn that our tutor and friend, Owen passed away in the last week in England. He was only 52 years old. I'm told he passed quickly after being diagnosed with cancer. I cried when I read the announcement in the Royal School of Needlework Facebook group. 

I learned during our class that he lived in the same town in England where I was born - not far from Hampton Court Palace. I'd discussed with him, and so hoped to be able to fly overseas to take a class from him again. Those hopes were dashed in the time it took to read of his passing. I sat stunned, and in tears.

While in our class, Owen told us of a book he'd co-written on stumpwork, and thanks so my trusty smart phone, I immediately located a copy for sale online. Before he was finished talking about it, I'd purchased it. It was waiting for me when I got home over the weekend. I was happy to own it back then, but even more glad I own it now that I'll not be able to see him again.

Rest in Peace, dear Owen. 

Know that you're loved and missed, and we'll not forget our time with you.