William died on December 31^st after a fall. He was born at Brickhouse Farm (now the site of Ashton High School); later the family moved to Bryars Farm, where his father died when William was just four years old. After attending St Andrew’s School, Ashton, and Deepdale Modern School, he went on to work for the Post Office and the Ministry of Labour. When war came, he volunteered to join the RAF: he regarded his military service as ‘something that had to be done’. On returning to Preston on one occasion, on 48 hours leave, he had a serious motor-cycle accident which left him with a damaged hand. However, he played his part as RAF ground crew and took part in the invasion of France.

In 1943, after an engagement of six years, William married Marjorie. When the war was over he resumed his career with the Civil Service. Promotion to Aston Employment Exchange was the first of several moves until finally moving to Birmingham. William retired after 60 years of public service and came to live in Broughton.

He was very proud of his two sons: Gordon, who is a pastor and teacher in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and Will, who lives in Coventry. William and Marjorie had spent a happy Christmas with Will and his family just before he died.

William is remembered as a Christian gentleman who enjoyed working with people. Many are grateful for his kindly hospitality, caring spirit and generous nature. His interests were wide and varied. He started the Probus Club in Preston, was a member of Preston Travel Club and of the National Trust.

Holiday travel was an important part of their retirement, travelling to the USA when in their 80s and also accomplishing an around the world trip! I first met them when Rev. Geoffrey Warburton took a Church party to visit the Seven Churches in Turkey (featured in the Book of Revelation).

William was always interested in the social and religious activities of our Church. In latter years he and Marjorie have appreciated the calm quiet of Wednesday morning Communion Fellowship as well as their regular Sunday morning worship.

We extend to all of William’s family our very sincere sympathy and assure them of our prayers. William was Marjorie’s carer in so very many ways. She does miss William so much that she has moved to Bethany House. We pray that Marjorie may find peace and contentment there.

As we were going to press, we learned of the sad death of his wife, Marjorie. Her funeral will be on Friday 14^th March. Look out for further details soon. Many condolences to all the family.