An open letter to Willie Pye RIP

Dear Willie

I feel the need to write to you posthumously after your execution to remember our friendship and companionship over 13 years. It was the organisation 'Lifelines' that put us in touch and we used to correspond regularly after that.

I was sorry that I could not meet you in person but I knew from the start that you were a generous and warm hearted person. We used to share our joys and sorrows - you always took a close interest in my family and at the time of the illness and death of my wife you were of great comfort.

In spite of those restrictive surroundings you were always positive and optimistic. You were filled with faith and hope and I am sure that this sustained you greatly. You must have suffered to be aware of how the legal system let you down but you tried not to let this influence you too much.

More recently you enjoyed seeing pictures of the countryside around me - you took a particular liking to seeing cows grazing in the field. You enjoyed talking about your favourite TV shows and you loved to talk about our Royal family - a true monarchist ! And from what I know you were a great support to your fellow prisoners.

And so we will remember you as a God given, precious human being. We will remember you as someone who showed us the best of humanity from your prison cell. And we will not forget you in our struggle to make the world a better place. We will not forget those who condemned you in the hope that their hearts may listen to the voices of humanity and compassion. We will not forget you as the struggle against the death penalty continues.

And so Willie its your turn to rest in peace, away fron this hurtful and unjust world that we inhabit. Remember to pray for us from that special place you have in Heaven that we might make the world a better place.

With best wishes

Your friend

Ben