Just after 7pm Perth time ABC news reported that Bev Gallop has passed away in Sydney this afternoon after her battle with cancer.

Bev had husband Geoff and sons Tom and Leo with her at the end of a harrowing battle with the disease.

Dr Geoff Gallop resigned as Premier a couple of years ago due to depression and we’ve talked of ways to overcome the “black dog” that’s gnawed at both of us these many years.

I hope and pray the mongrel will stay on the leash to allow Geoff to mourn his dear lady.

Bev was always positive and helpful, even when Journalists like me called before 6 am or after 11 pm during Geoff’s long career.

The abc story says the family takes some small comfort from knowing Bev is at rest after her ordeal.

God bless and vale.

No news yet on a memorial or funeral service, but with ties in Sydney, Perth and Geraldton there may be some chances for us to pay our respects and remember a wonderful woman.

UPDATE  Thursday March 12 - Labor’s WA office has confirmed the funeral for Bev Gallop is tomorrow morning at 10.30 starting at the main gate at Karrakatta.( it’s not private so respectful folk from the general public will be welcome )

Geoff, Tom and Leo as well as the extended family will of course be doing it tough. Let’s be there for them well after paying our respects to their wife and mother.

BETTER DAYS: Professor Geoff Gallop and wife Beverley before she was diagnosed with lung cancer. Picture: Jackson Flindell

BETTER DAYS: Professor Geoff Gallop and wife Beverley before she was diagnosed with lung cancer. Picture: Jackson Flindell

The abc story is at http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2009/03/04/2507640.htm