Bridie "Queenie" Smallman (11 Aug 1938 - 8 Nov 2018)

In loving memory of Bridie "Queenie" Smallman who sadly passed away on 8th November 2018.
Mom was born on 11th August 1938 in Hockley, Birmingham. She was the eldest of 3 and had many adventures with her sisters, Pat and Kath and their gangs. As they grew up, they each went their own ways but remained a close family unit supporting each other throughout married life and as Mothers.
Mom was brought up around strong role models and became one within her own family, extending to nephews and nieces who aspired to be like her.
As a young girl Mom treasured her bicycle which she saved up for herself and music. She owned a cherished record collection and was a dab hand on the piano; entertaining the family when her Dad went to work, with her sisters harmonising and other female relatives joining in.
Mom met Dad, George (Podge) who was from Kingstanding. He was the love of her life and they married at St Francis' Church on April 12th 1958. They raised a family of 5 children: Patty, Alan, Susan, Jenny and Kevin. We often recall fond and humorous childhood memories. Mom and Dad were known for throwing a good party, so much so that they are still spoken about today.
Mom was heartbroken when Dad passed away in July 2003; it would have been their diamond wedding anniversary this year. Mom and Dad will finally be reunited as they are both laid to rest on 29th November.
Mom and Dad played an influential part in the lives of each of their grandchildren: John, Robert, Sarah, Hannah, James, Andrew, Amy, Martin, Ryan, Matthew, Simon and Sam. They’ve all took great pleasure in listening to family stories retold animatedly by Mom and usually best shared when there was a get together. More recently Mom relished what little time she had with her grandchildren and only great grandchild, Alice. Even on a tough day, Mom’s eyes lit up when Alice came to visit.
Mom was youthful at heart and she particularly loved being around the younger family members and their friends, who even in latter times, often struggled to keep up with Mom!!
Mom was a good friend to all and she valued good neighbours which she’s been very lucky to have.
Alongside Dad, Mom moved homes a few times but had firm foundations in Birchfield and Perry Barr where she was quite a celebrity at her local One Stop Shopping Centre; having a bench unofficially dedicated to her which was commonly known as Bridie's Office which welcomed all, was open on Mondays and Thursdays and offered the obligatory office ‘smoke break’