Sidney Poitier, actor, activist and humanitarian, died yesterday. I loved his films and his philosophy. What a treasure he was for the world.
As a result of a brief comment on Facebook this morning, I have had the most interesting day.
My sister wrote on Fb , “My Mum met him – it was a highlight of her life! She taught deaf children in a very innovative way. Sidney Poitier heard about her and came to visit her at the school in Cornwall where she taught. I pay great respects to both of them!”
This lovely memory is not one of mine, sadly. I had left home by then and for some reason, this delightful news didn’t reach me. However, I have been researching all day and have been in conversation with people in Lostwithiel where Mum taught at the time. I have also been back to the family Cuttings Book that my Mum kept so carefully. She was very modest and there are few cuttings about her – the book is full of Dad and the rest of us. Perhaps the visit didn’t make the local newspaper.. 
The book opens with Mum and Dad’s wedding.
There are some pieces about Mum’s innovative teaching methods and her successes. Here are just a couple of paragraphs. Lots of children are named so I don’t feel I can show the whole articles without permission.
utesmile
January 9, 2022 at 4:14 pm
How wonderful to find all this! Your parents were very special!
mybeautfulthings
January 9, 2022 at 6:54 pm
I learn more and more as I find these treasures. It’s like magic! 🙂
Sandra
January 9, 2022 at 9:48 am
So lovely, Sally. Your parents were indeed special people who contributed much. As did Sidney Poitier.
Wendy Edgeley
January 9, 2022 at 2:49 am
I haven’t seen that photo of your parents’ wedding before and it was great to see my Dad there with all the family, looking very young and boyish. Dad spoke with great admiration of your Mum’s skill and dedication in teaching deaf children.
mybeautfulthings
January 9, 2022 at 10:31 am
There’re a couple more photos of your Dad in the Cuttings Book. I’ll send them to you and to David. I have also unearthed an old photo album with photos I think you will like. I’ll get to it today. xx. Nice to hear that Geoff admired Mum’s special skill. 🙂
Wendy Edgeley
January 9, 2022 at 12:04 pm
Thanks, Sally. I look forward to seeing the photos.
'made by you and i'
January 8, 2022 at 8:23 pm
Oh, I hadn’t heard the news. I can’t say it’s sad as he lived a long and meaningful life. Thanks for the look back on his life.
beth
January 8, 2022 at 8:17 pm
<3
ladysighs
January 8, 2022 at 8:07 pm
What a wonderful tribute to your mom!