Geoffrey Charles Last

I am one of those Ethiopians who grew up studying geography text books by Mr Last in 7th & 8th grade -1969-70.
We are all gratefully indebted to him for just coming to our country and selflessly contribute to the development of its youth.
Thanks Mr. Last on behalf of millions of Ethiopian kids.

Dear Jill

It was only today December 29th that I  received your card and the sad news of your dear Geoffrey's death. I just sat down and cried in memory of the wonderful man who had passed away without my knowledge.

The fact that in June you were back in Ketton without me even being present to put my arm around you Jill as a little support from a neighbour who still treasures so many happy memories of time spent together at Tamarisk and Church House. Our trip to France to search up a house which was large enough to house Geoffrey's books and garden large enough to keep the joy of having your animals transported over from England caused us quite a lot of searching but what fun.
I do not know if you will continue to stay in France Jill but please remember that if you are ever in England I would love to see you again and there is always a spare room here for you to stay.

You and Geoffrey will always be in my thoughts as two very special friends. 
Love Terry 

Dear Jill

I was so sorry to hear of Geoffrey's death. I hope that the passing of time will help ease your pain and wonderful memories will sustain you.  

I remember meeting you both for the first time when Roger and I visited you in Addis - it must have been either 1984 or 1985. 
Wishing you all the best.

Judith

Dear Jill

We are so sad; we both treasure wonderful memories of  the great hospitality up in the special house in Addis (& in Ketton) and Geoffrey's wealth of knowledge and passion about Ethiopia that we drew on through several decades! The humour,too, always matched the times, however difficult they were.

You both enriched the lives of those who met you & we are grateful to have known Geoffrey.

Love
Angela & Perran Penrose 

Very happy memories of time spent together and of eating cold Roland!

I met Geoff in 1958 in the Ethiopian Embassy in London and that is why I spent six years in Addis Ababa. He affected many people's lives and they were richer for it

My Dear Last Families (Esp. Peter!).

I'm greatful to be able to send my condelence to all youl. I was very moved to learn our dad is past on.  Mr. G. Last was my Dad in a way too! Addis  Ababa and my new life, as Poulsen is connected with great memories of " at Last at "Last!"(1970? on),  then I/we (Bulbulla - Tibeso ...) will feel safe at home. Where kids were kids and  adult were adult! Fun and joy was the times with Mum/Dad - Micheal, Peter and the BIG GUYS, when they came home, in Asella!

I saw Dad in 2006, I could see the changies in the country has been harsh on Dad too. yet Dad's spirit was alive, as today! Teaching and caring!!!
I send all my love and wish of  harmony - and peace!

Gobaneh Dimma

Dear Jill,

So sad. But thinking of Geoffrey brings back memories of great warmth and hospitality in Ethiopia from you both. Wonderful sessions of food, drink and hard debating interspersed with walks and games. Geoffrey wasn’t one to suffer foolishness of any sort and with the help of books and papers from an overstuffed library in the corner he fed my appetite for learning about Ethiopia.

We are both thinking of you and wish you strength in these difficult times.

Nick and Nicola

Dear Jill,

I was so sorry to hear the news of Geoffrey's death.  Sue and I send you our deepest sympathy.
David 

I felt so sad to hear this news. I have such treasured memories of the great hospitality I received from you Addis Ababa. I always held Geoffrey in such high regard for his wit, humour and kindness and will always remember the entertaining times I had in your company. My thoughts are with you Jill.

With love from Miranda