Together forever

Edward and Florence Crossley - died a week apart

AN inseparable Oldham couple died within days of each other after almost 60 years together .

Edward Crossley died in hospital and his devastated widow Florence passed away at their home in Roman Road, Failsworth, only a week later.

Their family believes Florence died of a broken heart.

The couple, who had been married since 1956, were described as “inseparable” and “a loving couple” by family members ahead of their joint funeral tomorrow.

Edward (78), known to his friends as Eddie, was smitten with Florence (77) after discovering they lived just doors away from each other in Limeside in the mid-1950s.

Their daughter Shirley said: “They went on a few dates and were instantly inseparable.”

The pair married at St Chad’s Church in Limeside when they were both 19 and went on to have three children, Shirley (57), Michael (55) and Alan (49).

Michael said: “They were a very loving couple, and fantastic parents - the best anyone could ask for. I know everyone says that, but it really was true.”

The tight-knit family was dealt a blow three months ago when Edward, who had previously beaten cancer, was told the disease had returned and was now terminal. He was admitted to hospital and died there on October 3.

Alan added: “The word shock doesn’t even cover how we feel. We expected dad to pass away — we were prepared for it, but mum’s death a week later was completely out of the blue.

“The death certificate may say that our mum died from heart problems, but we know it was really a broken heart.

“After he died she became very quiet and withdrew into herself. When you have spent so long with someone it must be difficult to know what to do when they are gone.”

Their funerals will take place tomorrow with service and committal at Oldham Crematorium at 10am.