Goodbye Chicken Jerry

Our erstwhile neighbours have contacted us to tell us of the death of Chicken Jerry. CJ was a very pleasant old guy who lived in a small cabin built for him in their garden by his sister and brother-in-law. Obviously he kept chickens though to begin with he had a few issues with the local foxes; the garden ended in a steep green bank, and at first, his mobile chicken run backed on to it, until he saw a fox climb up there and take a flying leap into the run itself, making off with one of the inhabitants. He ended up with a modern coop designed by a company called 'Omlet'. He was very proud of it and of his chickens in general, and for sure they were lovely birds.

Chicken Jerry was a very spiritual man, inspired by Eastern teachings. He was likely to greet one with a 'Namaste,' clasping his hands together in an attitude similar to prayer, and bowing gently. He had a lovely grin. He caught cancer, I think of the throat; certainly the tales of balloons being expanded down his oesophagus were alarming. He lost a frightening amount of weight and it looked like the end for him. Then it went into remission, and he lasted a good few years more, though I think looking after the chickens became too much for him.

And last week he died of a heart attack in his cabin. Seems that the cancer had returned though he wasn't aware of it, but his end may well have been quick and comparatively merciful. His sister found him dead in his cabin. I have this vision of him at the pearly gates saying 'Namaste' to St Peter and being presented with a flock of immortal chickens as he goes through; because I begin to suspect that it really is something in this world, to live and die a gentle person.

Rest In Peace Dear Chicken Jerry X