The news of Stephen's passing made me so upset. I know how much he was loved. This film is a lovely tribute to him. Here’s two wee personal anecdotes about Stephen from me, who I didn’t know very well, nor did I need to, as I enjoyed all my interactions with him, his company and his take on things, and that voice!! 1.When I first met Stephen, within seconds of hearing his voice, I blurted out “Fuck! Your voice is sexy!” I remember him looking a little embarrassed with a bit of a smirk and a stoic “yer what?!” look, as again, this was my first interaction I had with him. I think I then followed up this outburst with something along the lines of “ Don’t worry, I’m very comfortable in my heterosexuality, however, I could listen to you read the Yellow Pages from start to finish” And then prob banged on about myself feeling a bit of a nomad and having an unsexy, neutral and boring English accent compared to his.. I just remember him laughing and just getting on really well from then on in. And 2. When Granny died, (Jim's Mum) obviously it was very emotional and upsetting for us all. But just to highlight something I noticed.. I think, Jim, kind of kept it together for everyone else to grieve while we were collectively saying goodbye. And when she passed, everyone was clearly distraught. Stephen arrived a few short mins after us. I remember vividly, Stephen walking in and grabbing Jim into a big bear hug. I saw my Uncle Jim (Keys)just let go. He cried and wept as Stephen held him, spoke to him & calmed him. It kind of gave me permission to get upset in a weird way.. (Which is odd cos I was balling my eyes out all the time). Then Stephen went round and spoke to all of us. My Mother, Father, brother Sister, Aunts Uncles, etc. He was encouraging & benevolent to us all. He also gave me a big hug (as he did everyone) which I really, really fucking appreciated. He sprinkled in some kind words too which I can’t remember now but that’s ok, cos at the time I heard them and they too helped..I stayed with Jim to sort out the funeral arrangements as everyone else left to get some much needed rest, food etc. I remember saying to Jim “that there, Stephen is a really good fella" and that he felt like part of the family. Jim replied something along the lines of friends are family that we choose, which I no doubt replied in some smart arse way that it sounded like a hallmark card. I remember us laughing. The way Stephen spoke to my family and my Aunts and Uncles really helped me that day.. I just wanted to say, “Thank you” to Stephen. love to Stephen's family & friends & all who loved him. I’m sorry he’s gone. He will be missed.Love from across the pond. Tommy xx
