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16 Apr 09 - 08:37 AM (#2612334) Subject: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: billybob Bill and I were saddened to receive an e mail from Derek( The Amazing Mr Smith) this morning telling us that Viva died on Easter Monday morning in the Hospice in Dorchester. He says" many of you will know that Viva contracted breast cancer 12 years ago, was treated and given the all clear 5 years later. 2 years ago it returned in certain bones and the liver." Viva underwent various courses of chemo and radio therapy over the past 2 years, however she continued singing with Dangerous curves up till February of this year.I know, from seeing her in concert twice last year that many people in the audience had no idea she was ill, she explained she had a bad back so had to sit on a stool !Her positive outlook and wonderful spirit kept her going, an inspiration to us all! She had a wonderful voice, was a clever song writer and saw humour in all aspects of life, a brilliant observer of our funny little ways. The funeral will be held at St Mary Magdalene Church , Loders, at 4.0pm on Monday April 27th. Please try and let Derek know if you can attend. Our love and thoughts to Derek and Rosie, and to Ann and Jen. Wendy and Bill Simon. |
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16 Apr 09 - 10:18 AM (#2612381) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: GUEST,Jacqui Very very sorry to hear this - a great singer and a great lady. |
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16 Apr 09 - 11:21 AM (#2612431) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: The Sandman Sorry, to hear this. |
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16 Apr 09 - 11:23 AM (#2612435) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: Mick Tems Viva delighted us in Llantrisant Folk Club, South Wales, with her absolute vivacity when she appeared with Dangerous Curves - she was a marvellous songwriter and singer too. Somehow we can't believe she's gone. Our deep condolences go to Derek and all the family. Mick Tems |
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16 Apr 09 - 11:31 AM (#2612445) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: George Papavgeris Sad, very sad. My condolences to the family. |
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16 Apr 09 - 11:47 AM (#2612458) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: Tug the Cox I'm so sorry to hear this. Dangerous curves have been stalwarts of the Exmouth Festival, and did a great set at the Blackmore Theatre last year. She sent me a CD after, for guessing the tune they were using for one of her songs. Best wishes to Derek and family. |
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16 Apr 09 - 12:14 PM (#2612489) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: My guru always said So sorry to hear this, very hard to believe! A lovely talented Girlie has joined the Singers who have gone before. My heartfelt condolences! |
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16 Apr 09 - 12:51 PM (#2612513) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: Linda Kelly This will sadden members of cottingham live. Love and kind thoughts linda |
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16 Apr 09 - 01:14 PM (#2612532) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: Willa So sorry to hear this. The group had delighted us several times at Cottingham. Condolences to her family. |
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16 Apr 09 - 05:19 PM (#2612694) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: Herga Kitty I very much enjoyed hearing and seeing Viva and Dangerous Curves - this is another very sad loss. Deepest sympathy to the family and to Ann and Jen. Kitty |
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17 Apr 09 - 04:50 AM (#2612954) Subject: Obit: Viva (Dangerous Curves) From: s&r Just heard via email: "I hope you'll understand that I haven't been able to customise the following message. I've gone through our e-mail address book and sent it to all those contacts I don't recognise in case you are someone who knows Viva through 'Dangerous Curves' or some other connection. At 7am on Easter Monday Viva died at the Joseph Weld Hospice in Dorchester. Rosie and I were both with her. Most of you will know that Viva contracted breast cancer 12 years ago, was treated and given the 'all-clear' 5 years later. 2 years ago however, it's return was discovered in certain bones and subsequently the liver. The former was treated successfully if traumatically with radio-therapy and the latter held at bay for one year with oral chemotherapy. Last Summer, however, it became necessary to start the 'nasty' chemo. Several types were tried, none of which worked and all of which produced very nasty side effects. Throughout this period she continued with several 'Dangerous Curves' shows including her final one in February at which she was unable to stand. At that time we were hoping that the 'last-chance' chemo agent of which she had had two cycles, would be working. However the side effects of this were so bad that she went into the hospice for a 'respite' and did in fact rally to the extent that the news that Viva had eaten a bacon sandwich went round the whole hospice. She even wrote another song that day. 2 days later the liver function results showed that the chemo wasn't working. Up to that point her positive outlook and wonderful spirit had kept her going but at that point we realised that there was now no hope. She just said calmly: 'so be it'. Over the next few remaining days she stayed calm but rapidly became less rousable - an effect of liver failure we were told. She was in no pain. One of the last things she said to me was how lucky she had been.(!) Two years ago I'm pleased to say she told me she couldn't go through this without me. I loved her dearly but in the end I couldn't protect her and keep her safe. She's safe now. Derek. Her funeral will be at St. Mary Magdalene Church, Loders at 4pm on Monday 27th April. Food and drink in the village hall is to follow. Details about flowers, donations etc together with a list of local hotels and B&Bs will be sent in a separate e-mail shortly. Please inform anybody you know who knew her and who you think may not know. I've sent this e-mail in batches of 10 to reduce the chances of your anti-spam filter blocking it. For this same reason I've sent it twice. It would help if you could give me an indication of your likelihood of coming (and whether alone). Thankyou. " Forwarded for her friends Stu |
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17 Apr 09 - 05:08 AM (#2612964) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: SunrayFC On behalf of the Sunray, condolences to the family. Sad news indeed. Bob |
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17 Apr 09 - 05:14 AM (#2612968) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith( Dangerous Curves) UK From: The Barden of England Such sad news. Always enjoyed her songs and performances. My condolences to Derek and family. John Barden |
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17 Apr 09 - 08:59 AM (#2613055) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Anne Rickard & Jen Ingersoll (Dangerous Curv We will miss Viva so very much. She has left a big hole in our lives. We are so grateful for the experiences we have shared with her over the years. Viva was not only a very talented, clever and beautiful lady, her generosity was without bounds. Her energy was something we could only aspire to, and her wonderful smile - well, that was her trade-mark. Jen and I feel very honoured to have been part of her musical life - she was the driving force in Dangerous Curves. We have some special memories which we will always treasure. We became so close of the years, we felt almost like sisters and it is lovely to read all your kind comments here. Thank you for including us in your thoughts. Anne & Jen |
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17 Apr 09 - 10:45 AM (#2613108) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Girl Friday I didn't get the email from Derek until late last night. By that time i had the news from Doug Hudson. As I said to Doug, on Easter Sunday, I found some publicity stuff for Dangerous Curves(I was their booker for a while). I had a bad feeling about Viva, and we lost her the next day. She and Derek were regulars at my club in Orpington before their move to Dorset. We still met up when I stayed with my friend in Bridport. Sadly, I can't make the funeral but send love to Derek, Rosie, Jen, and Anne. Don't let the music stop, even though Viva has left us. Much Love Sue T |
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17 Apr 09 - 12:36 PM (#2613183) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Pete Jennings Truly sad news. Pete |
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18 Apr 09 - 03:58 PM (#2614011) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Waddon Pete I was lost for words when I heard the news. Viva was.......well, Viva! Ever since I heard the news, the song I shall always remember her for has been on my mind; 'The Blues my naughty sweety gave to me'. Her version of this was the best bar none. I shall sing Viva home on Monday. Thinking of you all, Best wishes, Peter |
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18 Apr 09 - 04:09 PM (#2614017) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: SunrayFC ...and that is the nice thing about music.....some one some where sings a song in a way that you find special and it stays with you.....forever! |
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18 Apr 09 - 08:44 PM (#2614152) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Pigstrings I remember Viva from way back in the days of Wild Oats. I had no idea she was ill until this devastating message from Derek. The world seems a little less without her. Sue |
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19 Apr 09 - 04:42 AM (#2614274) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Les Sullivan A very sad loss to her family and friends a wonderfull talented lady |
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19 Apr 09 - 05:12 AM (#2614279) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Essex Girl Just seen this thread, what a shame, a lovely woman and great singer. I remeber the last time I saw her at your house Wendy. My sympathies are with Derek and family. |
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19 Apr 09 - 04:47 PM (#2614601) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Girl Friday Ah.. Wild Oats.. I was trying to think of what the trio with Ray was called. |
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19 Apr 09 - 05:15 PM (#2614609) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Pistachio Sad news indeed, I add my condolences as I recall the performance at Cottingham Live. Hazel. |
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19 Apr 09 - 05:18 PM (#2614613) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Rockhen So sorry to hear this. I only saw Dangerous Curves once, but thought they were wonderful and such an original and brilliant female act. My thoughts to all those who knew her. Judging by how I felt after just seeing her perform once, I know she will leave a lot of wonderful memories with many many people, amidst the sadness of her loss. So sorry, Helen x |
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19 Apr 09 - 06:23 PM (#2614656) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: BusyBee Paul Condolences from the gang at Gainsborough Folk Club and festival. Deirdre |
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21 Apr 09 - 03:59 AM (#2615444) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Neil and Ann Thomas (Australia) Got to know Viva, Derek and Rosie while we were living in Bromley for 12 months in 1993. Still recall with great fondness listening to Viva and Dangerous Curves performing. We were amazed by her musical and dramatic talent and appreciated the friendship she showed us when we were far from home. We were shocked to hear of her passing and extend our sympathy and love to Derek and Rosie. Neil & Ann Thomas |
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21 Apr 09 - 04:18 AM (#2615449) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Andy Jackson How very sad. Our thoughts are with the family. Andy and Jillie |
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21 Apr 09 - 09:36 AM (#2615573) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: billybob an e mail from Derek this morning. Family flowers only please. But he invites anyone to bring( or send) one purple flower to the church to indulge Viva's passion for purple clothes.Donations to Weldmar Hospice Trust, c/o the Funeral Director Wakley and Sons, 91 East Street, Bridport, Dorset, DT6 3LB. He is also having a book of memories in the village Hall afterwards, Billy and I are going to the funeral so if anyone is not able to be there but has a memory to go in the book, pm me by Friday and I will print them off and give them to Derek, Wendy |
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21 Apr 09 - 02:34 PM (#2615719) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: JeffB I saw DC last year at Upton. They were very witty, intelligent, funny, professional. For me, they were the highlight of the festival, and came away thinking, "must see them again, soon as possible." I was really shocked and saddened to hear this news. Deepest sympathies to friends and family. |
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22 Apr 09 - 03:44 AM (#2616150) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Warwick and Lesley Downes We heard the news while we were on holiday. Knowing that Viva was very ill doesn't make the news of her death any easier to bear. Many fond and funny memories. From the Wild Oats days - singing "Operator" at a club, and on the final chord the public phone rang by coincidence: spooked the audience! Viva singing the blues for me on my 40th birthday, such a long time ago; her big smile lighting up the room, which other people have remembered too. Sympathy and best wishes to Derek and Rosie, you have our support whenever you need it; and to Jen and Anne who made such a great team of "sisters" with Viva. |
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22 Apr 09 - 04:49 PM (#2616516) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Aeola Just heard ,, very sad news. |
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23 Apr 09 - 06:59 AM (#2616854) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Sapper trying hard to look busy Saw them at Saltburn a couple of years back. A lovely bunch of ladies. My sympathy to family & friends. |
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24 Apr 09 - 05:22 AM (#2617615) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Sapper getting TIC ready 'cos TRU's gone duf I'm only hoping I've not mis-labled these, but there are some pics of Dangerous Curves on my Flickr page. If any of Viva's family or friends want copies, drop me an e-mail. DC at the Con Club (I hope) |
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30 Apr 09 - 02:03 PM (#2622063) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Polly Carton Just read the news of Viva's passing from Joe Stead's ramblings of an old Codger and although i only encountered her once, at Tisbury festival 2007 when I gave her a lift in the car, I remember her as lovely, open and warm and of course very talented and funny. I would like to say thanks for her inspiration and send my condolences to all who were close to her. |
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01 May 09 - 09:47 AM (#2622569) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: billybob Joe Stead sang at Viva's funeral Polly, it was a beautiful service and a bitter sweet afternoon.The most thoughtful lady vicar and some wonderful music. |
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10 May 09 - 09:50 AM (#2628264) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Anne Rickard (Dangerous Curves) There have been some lovely words for Viva, every time I take a look there are more. Thank you. We have our recorded CDs as a memory of how we sounded, but we never had anything recorded on video or DVD. Well, that's not strictly true - we did make a recording for DVD at the same time we recorded our last CD, but due to various circumstances it didn't materialise into anything, and that's such a shame, as we were very visual! However we have just recently managed to get hold of one of the tapes with most of that session on it and one of my sons is keen to put a bit of time into it and put whatever we can muster together for old time's sake. I am asking whether anyone out there might have any footage whatever, however short, or any quality, of Dangerous Curves performing, which he could then add onto the collection he is putting together. He is also keen to include some 'stills'. We have some of course, but again, if there are any shots we might not have, we would be very grateful for a copy. Optimistically then, if you have any digital photos please send them to me at busychicks@phonecoop.coop If you are able to drop any snippets of a live performance onto a DVD that would be great - email me and I will let you know where to send it. Of course I will reimburse any cost to you. Many thanks Anne Rickard |
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10 May 09 - 10:16 AM (#2628276) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Lizzie Cornish 1 I have wonderful memories of see you all, Anne, at Dartmouth's Flavel Centre, a few years back. I have never laughed so much in my life, nor have my children. We had tears coursing down our cheeks. All three of you have brought such joy into people's lives... Viva was right, she was lucky. She was lucky to have been blessed with such wonderful humour, voice, music, talent...and to have found such brilliant friends with whom I've no doubt she shared a life filled with chuckles and giggles. It's lovely to see how much she was loved. She got it right. Thank you Viva, for all those smiles. :0) |
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10 Mar 10 - 03:19 PM (#2861267) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Rosie Smith Dear mum, I can't believe it's been nearly a year. I think about you every day but I try not to cry because I know you wouldn't like it. Today though I am crying because the mothers day adverts have started on the tv and I miss you so much. I wish I knew where your ashes were so I could talk to you properly. I thought you'd like to know that Paul and I are trying for a baby, and if we have a girl we are going to call her Eva, we haven't decided on a name for a boy yet. Dad is coming to visit soon which I am looking forward to. Talena is getting married on the 27th. She has been a really good friend over the last year. I'm so sorry I was a horrible teenager. I wish we could do it all again and I wouldn't be rude to you, or worry you by harming myself. I would just appreciate you and love you. Happy mothers day, I hope you are safe where you are. All my love, Rosie xxxxxxx |
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11 Mar 10 - 06:31 PM (#2862176) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Pistachio Good luck Rosie, your Mum was special - I only saw her twice, but clearly remember her sense of fun. Mothers always love their daughters (and sons) it's part of life to be a 'testing teenager' - you are not alone! Hazel. |
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20 Oct 10 - 01:06 PM (#3011603) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,rosie smith Happy birthday mum xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx |
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20 Oct 10 - 01:12 PM (#3011606) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Rockhen I will play my cd of Dangerous curves in her memory, today. Thank you for sharing her birthday in a small way x |
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20 Oct 10 - 02:03 PM (#3011645) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,Gill Wastell Thinking of you Viva today on your Birthday (and every day) Gill x |
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13 Apr 11 - 04:10 AM (#3134173) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: GUEST,rosie smith Mummy I can't believe it's two years today. I miss you so much and I miss you more every day.....there's so much I want to tell you. I will see you again one day xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx |
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13 Apr 11 - 04:54 AM (#3134184) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Lizzie Cornish 1 Thank you, Rosie for re-igniting those wonderful, happy memories of seeing your Mum and her friends performing. I'm smiling as I think of her..and I bet she'll have much to tell you too, when finally you get to have a chatter together. I bet she's smiling with pride at your words above. Take care and lots of love. Lizzie :0) |
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14 Apr 11 - 07:04 AM (#3134960) Subject: RE: Obit: Viva Smith(Dangerous Curves) UK Apr 2009 From: Pistachio Smiles and memories, best wishes Rosie. Hazel |