Soham Grammarians - In Memoriam

Abbott, R John BA (Birmingham) Senior History Master 1967-72: died Tuesday 5 April 2011, aged 71: via Dick Bozeat

Ades, Michael J BMus (Nottingham) taught Music at SGS 1960-66. Daily Telegraph 7 Sep 2004: Peacefully at the Princess Royal Hospital, Haywards Heath, on 31st August 2004 aged 72 years: via Stephen Martin

Adkins, John R BSc (Lond) Physics 1965-67: died July 2001

Allen, CW Bill (1935 entry): died 3 Feb 2007: brother of Terry 39: via Bill's daughter Dr Deidre Holes

Allen, Terry (1939 entry): died 24th February 2013: via his widow, Wendy

Alps, Brian J (1950 entry): Died 29th March 2015. His service was on Tuesday 7th April, Midday at the Episcopal Church, Lochgilphead, Argyll. Donations were given to the Motor Neurone Disease Association: via Rod Else

Alsop, Brian (1952 entry): died of cancer in 2002: worked in the Middle East for many years and spent some time living in Texas: via his daughter Sharon Kent

Ambrose, John Samuel (1943 entry), of Ely. Passed suddenly but peacefully at Addenbrooke's Hospital on Monday 24th October 2016 aged 84 years. Loving husband to Gwen, Dad to Jane, Claire, Adam and Emily, Grandad to Samuel, Isaac. Lydia, Megan, Reuben, Charlie and Eleanor and Great Grandad to Martha. Also uncle and good friend. Private burial, followed by a Service of Thanksgiving at St Mary's Church, Ely on Thursday 10th November 2016. Via Mrs Gwen Ambrose.

Anderson, Bernard (1965 entry): died on Sunday 15th February 2015 while on a skiing holiday in France with his son. He was 61. His funeral was on Friday 6th March, at St Mary the Virgin, Salehurst, East Sussex. Bernard had built up a quality certification business, Eagle Certification Ltd, based in Robertsbridge: via John Lester

Armitage, Mr Edward Headmaster, 1945-72

Armitage, Mrs May GF Languages 1966-72: died aged 94, 9 Sep 2008: via the family

Askem, Peter Joseph (Art & Pottery 1954-72): died 18th February 2018 aged 87. A Service of Thanksgiving took place at St Andrew's Church, Letheringsett, Norfolk on Thursday 5th April 2018. A full tribute to Peter was added after the 2018 Reunion, at which his life was celebrated.

Atkinson, Mr Cecil E Music 1955-56: he became a priest and moved to Devon. He and his wife have died: via Mr Terry Jones

Audus, Professor Emeritus Leslie J (left 1929): died aged 99 on 5th May 2011, via his daughter Fiona Pushman

Audus, Peter R 'Nibbs' (1949 entry): via Peter Stonebridge

Audus, Ronald C (1942 entry) d 24 Nov 2009, he was an Electrical & Mechanical Engineer: via his stepson

Baker, John C (1951 entry): John Colin Baker, born 02.07.1941, who attended SGS 1951-57, died in Yeovil Hospital on the morning of Sunday 21st April 2013. The funeral was on May 1st at Crewkerne Church, followed by burial in a woodland burial site on Toller Down. He was much loved and will be deeply missed.

John used to help build the sets for the school productions and came home singing all the Gilbert & Sullivan tunes, starting a life long pleasure for him and his sister.

He went on to De Havillands and trained as a design engineer, and worked for the Glacier Metal Company for most of his life. He was married with three sons and two grandchildren. After being made redundant from Glacier he was immediately taken on as a consultant by the German Headquarters of the company in Usslar. He worked for the British Standards Institute, and was particularly involved in the standards for bridge bearings and construction. You may travel over John's bearings in many parts of the world, writes his sister Janet Perrett.

Bailey, Andrew (1960 entry): with thanks to Lees Donaldson SG'59', Pete Smith SG59 and Nick Cave SG60 - it has taken ten years for us to be reasonably confident that this is 'our' Andrew Bailey: Ely Standard, 16th Dec 2010 - BAILEY Andrew, sadly passed away on December 7th, 2010. Much loved and loving son of Joan and the late Don, brother to Debbie and Dave, loving uncle to James and Ben.

Lees writes: A.K. Bailey was born on 4 May 1949 [Ed: this is also the date in the 1963-64 School List] and joined SGS in 1960 in Form 1T. He had a younger sister named Debbie who was at Needham's and I also vaguely remember a much younger brother. When we first moved down from Scotland, his family lived in Witchford but later moved to Lisle Lane in Ely. We remained in touch after I left SGS and for a short time he worked in my parents shop (The Scotch Home Bakery) in Ely on Saturdays. He was fairly artistic and I believe at one time he was a window dresser for John Lewis in London. After he moved to London we lost touch although he sometimes called into the shop when visiting his parents.

Frank Haslam SG'59': Andrew was my Amahl in the December 1961 production of Amahl and the Night Visitors, Perdita in The Winter's Tale in 1962 and took part in The Memory be Green in 1964. He won prizes for Creative Art and Drama.

Bailey, David (1947 entry): via Mike Goodchild

Bailey, Francis (1937 photo): died 6 Sep 1991: for many years at CI Caravans Newmarket: via daughter Glenda Bailey

Baldwin, Michael Peter (1958 entry); d 2017 via his widow: the family are preparing a tribute to Michael which will appear here (Oct 2020).

Banyard, Robert (1895 entry): We were much distressed to hear of Mr Robert Banyard's death. His affection for the School was long and loyal. We offer our warmest sympathies to Mrs Banyard and her sons, both of whom like their father were pupils of SGS - Soham Grammarian Spring 1949.

Barber, Alan ('1959' entry): d 12 July 2021 aged 73. More to be added after his funeral at St Paul's, Whitley Bay on 26 July 2021. Alan/Ali came to SGS in the 1958 entry but repeated his Form IT year and so was always regarded as a 59er.

Barnett, Michael G (1962 entry year) d 27 Nov 23: Ed Reed SG67 writes - I believe Michael had a battle with cancer. Like me he was from Fordham. At school he was an outstanding sportsman and also played in the village cricket team.

Barton, Frederick Arthur (1936-7 school year entry). His daughter Mary Hutchinson writes: I do not know exactly when my father (Frederick Arthur Barton) left SGS [ed: he is listed in the 1941 Speech Day under School Certificate, and won a School Certificate Prize - and also won the Senior Divinity Prize]. After leaving school, he developed a career in telecommunications through work with the BBC and Redifon; he served with the Royal Indian Navy during WWII, working with ship radars.
In 1960, he emigrated with us all to southwestern Pennsylvania, USA where he took up a contract with what was then the Radio Corporation of America (RCA). With the demise of RCA, he developed his own consultancy, and right up to his untimely death, was travelling frequently between Pittsburgh and Tokyo, working on mobile telephone development projects. He is survived by my mother (Margaret) and seven of his nine children, most of whom are resident in the USA. We all cherish the memory of a kind, generous and loving man: he died on March 2nd 1989, aged 62.

Bedford, Peter (1934 entry): died 25th Oct 2004: via Yvonne Bedford

Bethell, Owen Keith (1943 entry): died 29 Nov 2002 aged 70: via John Kisby

Bignell, Philip (1951 entry): passed away at home on Friday 16th February 2018, aged 77 years. Much loved husband of Andrea and dear dad of Martin and Natalie and friend to many. His funeral Service was at St Edmunds Chapel, West Suffolk Crematorium on Tuesday 13th March. Philip was a frequent attender at our events up to to 2009. It is hoped to add more information: via Mrs Andrea Bignell.

Bishop, John who attended the Grammar School from 1940 to 1946, died on 19th February 2011. Via Stephen Bishop, his brother.

Blackwell, Colin (1960 entry): His widow Anne writes: Colin passed away on the 20th April 2011, the day after his birthday. He was a very brave and courageous man who bore his illness with dignity. He was age 62 when he passed away, I and his son and daughter were at his side when he passed away. I nursed him at home because that is where he wanted to be. He had lung cancer, bone cancer and finally he had brain mets. We cremated him in Braintree on the 16 May 2011 and had a memorial service afterwards at the Kelvedon United Reform Church where we have many friends.

I was Colin's second wife. He was widowed in 1992. We had 12 very happy years together, and we met via work. I was personal assistant to the Managing Director of Rosebys Shopfitting Services near Sheffield and Colin owned a small manufacturing company - Blackwell Shopfitting in Braintree, making bespoke furniture for various companies, one of which was Rosebys.

Colin's parents only passed away 2 years before his death, they died within 6 months of each other, and still lived in Burwell at the time on Carter Road, where I believe Colin grew up. He always remained fond of Burwell. Colin never spoke very much about his childhood years except to tell me that he grew up in Burwell and spent a lot of time with his cousins Ken, Keith and Sandra.

Blake, Trevor (1963 entry): died 2006: Deputy headteacher at Blyth Middle School in Northumberland, aged 54: via Peter Smith

Bonnett, Sid (peer group 1945 entry): died 1 Nov 2008: age 75 after a short illness: reported by Brian Knott/Terry Newman and confirmed by Mrs Christine Bonnett who it is hoped will provide further information in due course.

Bott, Brenda School Cook 1945-52 - see Hobbs, Brenda

Bray, Clive SG50 died Tuesday 14th April, in West Suffolk Hospital where he had been for 17 days suffering from pneumonia and another infection before being additionally diagnosed with the COVID-19 virus. His son and daughter were not allowed to visit, under the then restrictions, but were able to speak with and see him via Facetime on their phones on the Tuesday morning. His brother Alan Bray SG60 says that there will not be a public funeral as things currently stand but will advise should anything be arranged. Clive's death is the first reported to us in which COVID-19 has been diagnosed.

Clive and Alan have been great supporters of the Soham Grammarians. They can be seen sitting together, as usual, at the 2019 Reunion. Our thoughts are with Alan, and Clive's family and friends. It is hoped to add more about Clive.

Ivan Whymer SG56 provided this obituary from the Newmarket Journal: Clive Bray The funeral service for Clive Ernest Bray was held at West Suffolk Crematorium on April 24. Mr Bray, of Rowley Drive, Newmarket, died at West Suffolk Hospital, in Bury St Edmunds, on April 14. He was 81.

Born in Isleham, the eldest of three children, he went to Soham Grammar School, leaving at 15 with no qualifications. He took up an apprenticeship in printing and at 21 was conscripted into the RAF Police based at RAF Scampton. In 1965 he married Thelma and together they had two children Andrew and Helen.

He worked at Heffers in Cambridge and then at printers in Hills Road before taking up a position in sale and design with a corrugated case manufacturer in Burwell. He then moved back to work in Cambridge at the college of arts and technology as senior technician in printing. He also taught photography and calligraphy at evening classes. His hobbies included photography, aeronautics, the arts, the theatre, the National Trust, jazz and light classical music and writing jokes which he was compiling into a book. His family said: “Clive said of himself, always strive to be a glass half full. I am a bit of a hoarder and an untidy perfectionist.”

He is survived by his son Andrew, daughter Helen and grandchildren Claudia, Faith, Joseph and Laurel. Mr Bray’s funeral service was live streamed to nearly 50 households of his family and friends.

Bridgeman, Flight Sergeant Russell J, RAF (1937 entry) - from the Summer 1961 Soham Grammarian
Flight Sergeant Bridgeman was one of six RAF personnel killed in an Avro Anson which crashed in the Isle of Man in February 1961. Rusty, as he was known to his contemporaries, had joined the RAF as Boy Entrant and was engaged on work at the Technical Training Command Communications Flight at RAF Wyton - see also post WWII

Brown, Norman: via Donald Monk

Brown, Reginald Arthur (1947 entry): Reg was very well known in Soham and the wider community. He was principal of CE Fuller & Co, Funeral Directors. He started working for his father-in-law in 1960 and took over the company on Cecil's retirement. Reg was involved in all aspects of the company from arranging funerals through to cutting glass. In recent years he was increasingly asked by families to give tributes to people he knew or to lead a simple service at the crematorium. He was a fount of knowledge and always had a tale to tell. Our condolences to his widow Anita and daughter in law Marie and the family.
Reg's funeral was on Tuesday, February 27th at St. Andrew's Church, Soham: via John Dimmock.

Bull, John (1940 entry): evacuee from London's East End, Lord Mayor of Westminster 1984-85. He was born in London on 8 November 1927 and died in London on September 30 2007 aged 79: via editor

The Jewish Chronicle 21 Dec 2007: A Councillor for 31 years, John Bull was Lord Mayor of Westminster from 1984-85. Joining the Conservative Party in 1950, he was a ward chairman and a local treasurer before being elected to Westminster City Council in 1971. He served on major committees and subcommittees covering health, social services, housing, finance, planning, police, licensing, contracts and grants. He chaired the social services main committee from 1979-82 and was chairman or vice-chairman of most of his subcommittees.

As Westminster’s lord mayor, his chaplain was the late Rev Dr Isaac Levy. He addressed a civic reception at the Central Synagogue on Jewish links with Westminster. He hosted the Westminster City Hall launch of a Holocaust memorial cassette, whose proceeds benefited the Council of Christians and Jews. He spoke at the annual Ajex parade in Whitehall and used an official trip to West Germany to meet Jewish leaders.

Born in Cable Street in London’s East End, John Bull was evacuated during the Second World War and went to Soham Grammar School in Cambridgeshire but returned to London to attend the Regent Street Poly (now the University of Westminster).

He married Helene Baran in 1947, after two years’ national service in the RAF, and set up a successful West End antiques business.

A long-standing campaigner against the Arab boycott, which he considered as harmful to Britain as to Israel, he chaired the Trades Advisory Council for some 20 years, ending as vice-president, and was ex officio a member of the Board of Deputies. Founded in 1940 to combat job discrimination against Jews, the TAC tackled the boycott until it faded with the 1993 Oslo accords. While promoting the TAC’s arbitration and reconciliation service, he protested to the prime minister, Margaret Thatcher, and the Foreign Office about the FO’s readiness to authenticate boycott documents. He withdrew his account from international courier DHL, which would not deliver to Israel.

He was a school governor, JP, tax commissioner, Rotary member, founder of the North London branch of the Conservative Friends of Israel in 1984, member of the Institute of Directors, and founding social chairman of the Handicapped Children’s Aid Committee (now Lifeline 4 Kids) from 1961-77, organising its annual ball.

He received an Order of Merit from France in 1985 and was made deputy lieutenant for Greater London in 1989 and honorary alderman in 2003, when he retired. He was a racehorse owner and keen Arsenal supporter. He is survived by his wife, daughter Adrienne, son Kenneth, four grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Bunting, Michael (1953 entry): died on 1st November 2019, aged 77. There was a Celebration of Mike's Life at St Mary's, Ely on Thursday 21st November 2019 at 1pm, followed by a private burial. Mike had been a regular member of the SG53ers attending our Reunions. He had even hoped to be with us this year but was too poorly. We will miss him. Via Chris Bent SG53. Eulogy and recollections to be added

Burlingham, Ken (1937 entry): via Brian Lane

Burton, Geoff (1950 entry): Haddenham and Cyprus, d 10 June 2005, aged 66 at home in Haddenham: via John Favell

Butcher, Bruce (1963 entry): Bruce Butcher passed away on 23 November 2021 after a battle with prostate cancer which was found to be inoperable as it was far advanced when it was discovered. He leaves a wife Julie and 2 daughters. His funeral is being held at Fenland Crematorium, Knights End Rd, March PE15 0YH on Monday 20 December 2021 at 11:30. There are several photos of Bruce in his sports teams: via Dudley Walton SG63

Butler, Aubrey Frank (1948 entry). Died Monday 4th November, aged 82 years. When at school he lived in Swaffham Prior. Much loved husband of Anita, wonderful father to Paul, Cheryl and Carl, and grandfather to 6. He will be missed by all who knew him. The funeral service will take place on Wednesday 4th December at 1pm at Cam Valley Crematorium, , Field Farm Drive, Great Chesterford, Saffron Walden CB10 1FE. Family flowers only please but donations if desired will be gratefully accepted for Dementia UK or Parkinson's UK and can be sent c/o Cecil Newling Funeral Directors, Newling House, Market Hill, Royston, SG8 9JL. Telephone: 01763 243048: via Ian Hobbs SG48.

Butler, Roger A (1959 entry): after a sometimes 'chequered' school career Roger Butler ended up with a degree from Royal College of Art. He went on to become a successful architect with his own company based in Ealing, West London. Roger suddenly and unexpectedly died of a heart attack on February 14th 1988: via Tony Burton 60, Roger's brother in law

Bye, Alan (1954 entry): Peacefully on 11th May 2016, Alan of Welney aged 72 years. Dearly loved Husband of Joy, much loved Dad of Debbie, Paul, Lorraine and Stuart and a dear Father-in-law, Grandad, Great Grandad, Son, Brother, Brother-in-law, Uncle and friend of many. Funeral service at Fenland Crematorium March on Thursday 26th May 2016 at 11.30am: via Stan Harley

Bye, Noel (1940 entry): d 2005, via his daughter Carol Betts

Capes, Officer Cadet Colin J, RAF (1958 entry) - from the Summer 1966 SG
Colin Capes died in a climbing accident in the Peak District, at the age of 19 - a sad end to a career of promise. He always wished to make the RAF his career and had many disappointments before he succeeded. He entered the RAF as an Officer Cadet at the RAF's own college at Cranwell, last autumn.

Always cheerful, bubbling with life and energy, he was an invigorating personality. His contemporaries will always remember his throaty chuckle, and the quips and opinions which ensured that no lesson became tedious. So much a part of our school life, he is a friend we shall feel the loss of in the adult world - see also post WWII

Carter, Harry (1949 entry) has died aged 69 on 28th September, 2007. His funeral took place at St Mary's Church, Burwell on 4th October 2007: via Clive Bray
Carter, Trevor (1955 entry) of Haddenham, passed away on Thursday January 6th 2022 at Arthur Rank Hospice aged 77 years. Much loved husband to Sue, dad to Jonathan and Naomi, father in law to Morag and Craig, grandad to Charlie, Freddie, Matilda, Tabitha, Toby and Hugo and brother to Vivien. Funeral service was at Holy Trinity Church, Haddenham on Wednesday February 2nd at 1.30 pm followed by burial in Haddenham Parish Cemetery. Family flowers only, donations if desired for Arthur Rank Hospice Charity at the service or c/o A.G. Carter Funeral Director, 6 Froize End, Haddenham, Cambs CB6 3UQ Tel 01353 740251: noted in the Ely Standard, 27 January 2022 by Stan Harley SG53, and Terry Rule SG55.

Casbon, Albert Brian (1948 entry): of Littleport, formerly of Little Downham, died suddenly at home on Sunday 4th August 2013, aged 76 years. Devoted husband of Brenda, loving dad of Lynn, Angela, Diane, Neil and Juliet. Also a proud grandad to his ten grandchildren and eight great grandchildren. Funeral Service at St Leonard's Church, Little Downham on Friday 23rd August 2013 at 11am followed by committal at Fenland Crematorium, March. Family flowers only but donations, if desired, for Descensus Aquarium Lodge may be left at the service or sent to Ely Funeral Service, 4 Tower Road, Ely, CB7 4HW: via Mrs Brenda Casbon

Cazenave, Dave (1967 entry): via Mike Gardner

Chambers, Graham J (1961 entry): Peter Devonish 61 wrote on 14 Feb 2012 that his friend Graham had passed away at the week-end. "Graham had a varied career including several years running his own business in the Canaries. At the time of his death he was living in Littleport." More information when available.

Christopher, John William (1946 entry): via Roger Wright: Christopher, aged 74, came from Witchford where his father kept the local village shop. After National Service in the RAF, he worked at Ely Railway Station for a while until he joined The Huntingdonshire Constabulary. He worked his way up through the ranks until his retirement with the rank of Chief Superintendent in charge of administration at Police Headquarters, Huntingdon. His funeral took place on 18th March 2009 at Colney Woodland Burial Park Norwich, where he was laid to rest beside his wife Margaret who died in 2005. For several years he and Margaret lived in Wymondham where they had moved to be near his family.

Clark, David Morgan (1969 entry): My name is Janet Clark I am David's wife. Very sadly I must inform you David died on 12 March this year, after being diagnosed with cancer in November 2022. He died at home after a short stay in hospital with infections/sepsis.

David Morgan CLARK: published Cambridge News 16/3/23
Estate Agent, Ely. Passed peacefully away at his home in Haddenham on Sunday March 12th 2023, aged 65 years. Dearly loved husband of Janet, loving father of James and Edward, father in law of Catherine and Alice and grandfather of Kit, son of the late Max and Marie Clark. Funeral service at Fenland Crematorium, March on Thursday March 30th at 11.30am. No flowers by request, donations if desired for Arthur Rank Hospice Charity at the service or c/o A.G.Carter Funeral Director, 6 Froize End, Haddenham, Cambs CB6 3UQ.

David Clark & Co: It is with much sadness we announce the passing of David Clark. David was diagnosed with Cancer in November 2022 and died with Sepsis on 12 March aged 65. David was able to come home and have end of life care at home with his family because of the amazing support of the Team from Arthur Rank Hospice at Home. If you would like to donate to this charity so more families can benefit in this way, please click on the link below.

Donate to Arthur Rank Hospice Charity in David's name. David Clark & Co will continue in his name, with business as usual.

Clarke, Neil P (1953 entry): Chris Bent SG53 writes: Following a heart attack, and with insurmountable health issues, Neil died in a Florida hospital on Monday 13th May 2024, in the presence of his wife Janice (nee Aveling of Ely) and his stepson Cameron Moore.

After an early career in computer science Neil was author of a stock control programme which was adopted by a major USA-wide wholesale electrical parts distributor. Neil continued to be involved with the development of the programme throughout his working life and was still a part time advisor when taken ill. Neil was a good school friend and one of the infamous self-styled sixth form “elite” in our final Grammarian years. He was also Best Man at my wedding in 1965.

We kept up an intermittent connection over the years, resulting in my visiting Neil, Janice and her family in Florida in 2021, renewing our friendly relationship. By then Neil had no interest in returning to the UK. Having reminisced over old SG sports and group photographs Neil gave them to me to donate to the SG archive.

Cockerton, Alec E (1943 entry): funeral 19 May 1951: Soham Grammarian Summer 1951

Cole, Ken (1948 entry) d 10 Feb 2010 at Addenbrooke's Hospital after a long illness. Funeral in West Chapel of the Cambridge Crematorium Fri 19 Feb 2010: via Brian & Beth Lane.

Coleby, Jake (1950 entry) of Littleport, passed away at his home on Tuesday 11th January 2022, aged 82 years. Loving husband of Julie, adored dad of Maz and Paul and treasured grandad to Ena, who will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. Funeral Service at Fenland Crematorium, March on Tuesday 22nd February at 1.30 pm. Family flowers only please, but if desired, donations made payable to East Anglian Air Ambulance may be left at the service or sent c/o R. J. Pepper & Son Family Funeral Directors 14, Prickwillow Road, Ely, Cambs, CB7 4QT Tel: 01353 665300
see also from Littleport Life, 1 Dec 2015: The Story Behind Coleby’s, the Shop in Granby Street

Coleman, Philip B (1945 entry): killed in a road accident at Chettisham not long after the 1949 school photo was taken: via Sid Bonnett

Coulson, Donald G (1947 entry): via Peter Hunt

Count, Grahame (1965 entry) on 1st December at Addenbrookes Hospital after a long battle with cancer. He leaves his wife and two children in Willingham, Cambs. Grahame was a keen sportsman for all of his life and worked latterly for Marshalls, Cambridge: via his brother Michael Count.

Covill, Bertram C BEM (1925-26 entry): d 2001

Cox, Ivan (1964 entry) Via John Dimmock: "It is with great sadness I report that , after a long illness, passed away on Thursday May 23rd. The funeral has been arranged for Friday June 21st at 2pm. It will take place at The Ark, Beck Road, Isleham CB7 5QP. This is a new building run by Isleham High Street Church."
Ivan was a Prickwillow lad. He was Head Boy 1970-71 and was in the Cricket and Football 1st XI and was Bacon Coronation Cup Winner in 1971. We last saw him at the 2018 Reunion.

Cox, Sidney (1947 entry): d13 Nov 2018: In his early years, he was a “teddy boy”, and this began his lifetime love of rock ‘n’ roll music. Well-known for his involvement with Isleham Football Club: from Ely Standard 14 Jan 19

Coxhead, Henry (1940 entry) d June 2004: via his brother John Coxhead

Cranwell, Douglas (1937 entry) died 28 Sep 2010 in a motor accident, aged 83: he was a life Vice-President of Ely City Football Club: via John Kisby

Cross, Alan (1950 entry): Mrs Myriam Cross has let us know that her husband Alan died on 17th September 2018. More information when available.

Dann, George Ellis (1933 entry): George was our oldest reunion attender for a number of years. 'Passed away peacefully in Broomfield Hospital on 3rd December. Devoted husband to the late Pat, he will be sadly missed by his family and many friends. Funeral service to be held St Mary's Church, Great Dunmow on Monday 22nd December at 10.30am.' Originally printed on December 11, 2014 in the Dunmow Broadcast. Click here for George's story

Day MBE, Terry (1957 entry) d 16 April 2020: via Chris Bent

Deasley, Peter (1954 entry): Died on Thursday 9th November. He was often at our reunions. He had been unwell for over a year but by the time the cause - Myelodysplastic Syndrome - was finally diagnosed he was too unwell for a bone marrow transplant and chemotherapy. His first wife died and Peter married again with the hope of many years together after both had experienced the death of spouses from very debilitating illnesses.
Peter had a distinguished career in industry and academia - see link
His funeral was at All Saints Church, Church Hill, Stretton on Dunsmore, Rugby CV23 9ND on Thursday 23rd November, and afterwards at Bourton, Draycote and Frankton Village Hall.

Delanoy, Donald Brian Lee 'Don' (1940 entry?): passed away on the 5th December 2016, aged 88 years. His funeral service was at the West Suffolk Crematorium on the 20th December 2016. Donations were sent to the Forget-me-not Dementia Campaign [based on announcement in the Bury Free Press on Dec. 16, 2016].

Don worked for many years for the Pye Group in Cambridge and always enjoyed reminiscing about his lab and colleagues there. In the 1980s he formed his own electronics company, Southcam Engineering, based at Barrington. Later he returned to the Pye/Philips group as a consultant.   He was a very keen radio ham and had contacts world-wide; in his retirement he was involved with the Radio Society at Duxford for which he wrote several papers. His other hobbies were church organ playing and his love of dogs - his little King Charles was with him till he became hospitalised at Bury St Edmunds where he passed peacefully away in December 2016 (from Lorna Delanoy)

Paul Delanoy adds: As a child my visits to Uncle Don were the highlight of the year. He had a wealth of amazing stories, a golden retriever dog and an E-type Jaguar, what more could a young boy wish for! I said then that “when I grow up, I want to be clever like Uncle Don”. I did not know what an impossible task I was setting myself. I did my best in this goal, but had to realise that no number of years at university would ever put me in the same league as someone with Don’s intellectual gifts. Clearly, I am not an unbiased observer of Don’s abilities, so I was very pleased to find someone else had commented on them on an internet webpage. Don worked for most of his career with the Pye electronics company which became part of the large Philips group. The Pye company no longer exists but it does have a museum and an internet page called The Pye Story. It has a section Key Figures in Pye and Don is listed as one of them - please click here.

Delanoy, John (1942 entry) d 4 January 2021. The last of the Delanoy boys, Don, John and Michael. He won the Junior Merit Prize in 1946 and obtained his School Certificate and a Scholarship to the Cambridge Art School in 1947. Anyone who knew John at Soham Grammar School would be aware that he already had an intense interest in aeroplanes. Unfortunately, he did not get the posting to the RAF he requested for his National Service and was instead assigned to the Royal Navy. He did not enjoy his time in the Navy, but it did not put him off boats, as he owned several in later life, some built for him to his own design. His passion remained aeroplanes and he enjoyed many years of flying both gliders and powered aircraft. Even after he had decided he was too old to continue flying, his interest in aeroplanes did not diminish.

John married Barbara (from Ely, née Tucker) in 1954 and had two children, Neil in 1958 and Paul in 1961. After trying several different career paths, he joined British Sugar in 1953 and remained with them until his retirement in 1981. He always loved Norfolk and moved there when the opportunity of a job transfer to the area arose in 1975.

John passed away peacefully, two months after his 90th birthday: via Paul & Barbara Delanoy.

Delanoy, Michael Ewart MBE (1948 entry): Beloved husband to Lorna, father to Kevin, Craig and James and grandfather to Jordan, Joshua, Carlotta, Scarlet and Zak, died suddenly on July 9th 2020. Private family funeral. Donations in Michael's memory if desired to The Farmland Museum or British Heart Foundation c/o A.G. Carter Funeral Director, 6 Froize End, Haddenham, Cambs CB6 3UQ: Ely Standard 23 July 2020: via Ian Hobbs SG48 and Brian Knott SG57.

We hope to cover Michael's life fully in due course, in the meantime Lorna Delanoy has provided a card which celebrates his life - click here

Denley, Bryan V (1947 entry): d June 2009 aged 72: via Brian Knott and Beth Lane.

Dewsbury, Roger John (1953 entry): d 9 January 2024 aged 81. Stan Harley SG53 writes: Roger passed away suddenly at March Rifle Club, due to natural causes, after firing a single shot, which was straight through the bull's eye, emblematic of his pursuit of perfection throughout life - a standard he often met.

From a successful academic career to becoming a director of a national company in South Africa, Roger exemplified meticulousness, rarely overlooking details in his endeavours. Known for his unwavering commitment to others, Roger consistently put their needs before his own, leaving an indelible mark on those he encountered. As James O'Barr eloquently stated, "If the people we love are stolen from us, the way to have them live on is to never stop loving them." Roger's legacy lives on in the cherished memories shared by family and friends, don't let it stop. Roger is survived by his devoted wife, Liz Dewsbury, his mother Hilda Kempton, and his son, Ian. In lieu of flowers or cards, donations to the East Anglia Air Ambulance in his name will be appreciated. May Roger rest in peace, his spirit forever remembered and his legacy enduring.

Dickinson, Timothy (1950 entry) of Stowupland, Stowmarket. Passed away peacefully on June 17, 2019, in West Suffolk Hospital, aged 81. Dearly loved husband to Irene, dad to Leigh and Mark and loved by all the family. Private family cremation: via his good friend at SGS, Brian Thorby SG49

Diver, Joe (1922 entry), about 2002: via his brother Alan

Dodson, Gren J (1950 entry), March 2003: via his widow Eve

Drake, Mr Ken D, Art & Pottery 1948-54: via Russell Drake
Ken Douglas Drake known in the family as 'Dilly'. He died on 24th May 2002, leaving a wife Meg and two children Janna and Gillian. He was Russell Drake's uncle and taught him for the first two years he was at Soham. Ken was at the school for 6 years as Art & Pottery Master and must have left in August 1954, being replaced by Peter Askem. He had been a pupil at the school before the war and had painted many murals on the walls around the entrance hall, main staircase and landing, many of which were still clearly visible, although faded, when Russell was at Soham.

Durrant, Bob M (1956 entry): d 26 July 2009 aged 63: Bob was 63 (he would have been 64 in August). He left SGS in 1963, got a degree from Southampton University and spent much time in electrical engineering. He ran a care home for a while and returned to electronics more recently. He was living near Bury St. Edmunds: via Richard Dean

Eden, Cyril (1942 entry): died 27 November 2018: whilst driving on the A12 to his flat in Hornchurch. His daughter Sue Godwin writes "We had Dad's funeral in Soham Baptist Church where he had pumped the bellows of the organ as a boy and he is buried with my Mother in Isleham cemetery. One of the things we put in his coffin was his Soham Grammar School tie. He had a fantastic memory for facts and figures - often correcting his younger brother Fred about events from their past and was always proud of the fact that he had gone to Grammar School. Fred Eden SG44 is now the sole survivor of the Eden brothers who attended SGS." See also The Edens at SGS and EHS

Everitt, Fitch Donald - from the Summer 1960 SG
Died in Leeds, keen sportsman, played for and was President of Leeds Zingari CC. Former President of Leeds Fruit Merchants Association.

Faircliffe, James (1944 entry) Patrick Faircliffe SG48 writes: It is with sadness I have to inform you of the recent death of my brother James Faircliffe SG44. He had been suffering from Alzheimer's for the past four years but had managed to be at home with live-in carers until May last year, when he went to Barchester Oaklands home in Bottisham. The level of care was excellent and during last summer he was able to go out on several trips.

However, over time his condition deteriorated and in January needed a short spell in Addenbrookes. It was unfortunate that for well over the last two years he had no recollection of any members of his family. I was able to visit a few days before he passed away on the 2nd June, when the senior nurse felt he was in a declining state of health as he was only able to take small quantities of liquid nourishment.

Having contacted the Rev. Eleanor Williams at Burwell she did manage to visit and anoint him before he passed away. The funeral was held at St Mary's Burwell on Thursday 23rd June at 11am followed by burial at Reach. Please click here for the Eulogy read by Patrick.

He was one of the eight original Boarders.

In 2014 James recorded an interview about his memories for Burwell Stories - please click here

Firby, John (1949 entry): Died 17th March in hospital. John had been a regular attender of our events up until the Firbys moved from Over to the Isle of Wight. "He really missed attending" said his widow Linda. His funeral will be on Monday 9th April at 11:15am at the Isle of Wight Crematorium: via Mrs Linda Firby

Fisk, Jeremy (Wayne) David (1958 entry): d 2020: Lees Donaldson SG'59' writes - He was my wife's cousin. Born on 22 March 1946,he started work for Marshalls in their drawing office but did not enjoy the indoor restrictions and left. He then became a crane driver which gave him the opportunity to work outdoors and this was the career he followed. At some point he changed his name from Jeremy to Wayne. He lived in Soham all his life. His funeral at West Suffolk Crematorium on 24 November 2020 is immediate family only.

Fleet, Lionel Wilfred (1943 entry) & taught Physics 1956-61: died on October 16th, 2017, aged 85: source: Eastern Daily Press, October 20 2017. It is hoped to gather more information about Mr Fleet.

Fletcher, Roderick W (1947 entry): died 1991: via Malcolm Fletcher & Brian Knott

Ford, Mr CJ Charlie/Chas Chemistry, 1926-64

Fordham, Alan (1952 entry): died 2003: via son Alastair Fordham: Alan Fordham 52, shown in your 1952 school photo [and 1956] was my father. He tragically died in a car accident on the night of 14th February 2003 near Upware (two villages away from Soham). He is buried in the graveyard opposite the place he grew up - the Crown pub in Fordham. He was the father of four, myself being the only male to carry on the name. Our family grew up in Wicken and he later lived in Chatteris. His grandfather, Harry Fordham, is named on Soham war memorial from the Great War.

Fordham, John J (1947 entry): died 27 January 2021 aged 84: Cambridge News 25 Feb 2021: Loving husband to his late wife Pauline, much loved dad of Joanne, Peter and Julian, father-in-law to Stephen, Nathalie, Georgina and Melissa, dear grandad of Charles, Oliver, Natasha, Jonathan, Thomas, Emily, Lizzy, Sophia and Marcus. John will be sadly missed by all his family and friends. Private Funeral Service at West Suffolk Crematorium. Donations if desired to the Alzheimer's Society.
John was winner of the Mathematics Prize and Old Boys' Prize. Awarded County Exhibition. 1st X1 Football captain and continued to play with Soham United for several years. SGS's first Soccer Blue, playing for Oxford in the Varsity fixture at Wembley for 2 years, on the first occasion watched by a large party from SGS in December 1957. He was also in the school cross-country team and continued to run long distance for many years in this country and abroad as a veteran. Diploma in Education, Oxford University. He taught at Newmarket GS and his wife Pauline taught at Ely High School: via Ian Hobbs.

Foreman, Sir Philip F (1934 entry): died 2013 aged 89: via Lady Margaret Foreman
Foster, Anthony (French 1951-57): Mr (Major) Anthony CV Foster died on 4th October 2016 aged 93. His funeral was at St Andrew's Parish Church, Stapleford on Wednesday 26th October 2016.

Freeman, Harold (1943 entry): d 28 Aug 2008, suddenly, his funeral was on 9 Sep 2008: via his sister Lorna Delanoy: much missed by his great friend Lloyd Heffer

Freestone, Vernon Joseph (early 1930s): Born 13 Apr 1916, he lived in Ely, date of entry to SGS not known. Travelled to school by train. He worked for the Atomic Energy Authority at Harwell for most of his working life. He died peacefully at home in Wantage, Berkshire (now Oxfordshire) 30 Nov 1998 at the age of 82: via his son Graham Freestone

Fretwell, Cedric (1948 entry): Vernon Fretwell SG50 writes: my brother Cedric Fretwell SG48 passed away on Friday March 27 2015. He had been quite ill for some time but died peacefully in Kings Lynn hospital. Cedric leaves a daughter and three sons and their families. His funeral service will be held on April 24th at 3pm at the Surfleet (near Spalding) Crematorium and also following this at the Chapel in Gosberton, Lincolnshire.

Cedric was born in Stuntney and brought up in and around Ely but had spent much of his life in Lincolnshire where he was a member of the South Holland District Council. Cedric served with distinction in the RAF and was for some time based at RAF Mafraq in Jordan during the Suez crisis. Our brother Cliff SG52 was also at SGS.

Fretwell, Rodney (1942 entry): d 31 May in Kettering aged 89. Born in Ely, educated at Soham Grammar School, lived in Witchford, Little Thetford and Ely. Only child of Florence and Jack Fretwell of Stuntney. Missed by his beloved wife of 68 years Norma, his children Marian, Kathryn, Graham and Russel, his 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Rest in peace: source Brian Knott SG47/Ely Standard

Fuller, Donald James of Reach (1947 entry). Don died peacefully on 29th November aged 77. Our condolences go to his son Andrew and family. Funeral service at the church of St Etheldreda, High Street, Reach, on Friday 14th December at 10.30am, followed by the interment. Donations may be made payable to the Arthur Rank House Hospice Charity, c/o Southgate of Newmarket Funeral Directors, 25 Duchess Drive, Newmarket, CB8 8AG. Via Patrick Faircliffe.

Fuller, Donald, of Soham (1939 entry). Died aged 87, June 2013. Funeral at Soham Church on Tuesday July 16th at 3.30pm followed by burial at Soham: via Reg Fuller.

Fuller, John C (1947 entry): via Brian Knott: Christine Fuller (née Bell, ex EHS) adds: "John was at SGS from 1947 to 1952 and then spent his career working in the land drainage and electricity supply industries based at Cambridge, Peterborough and Ely; latterly he was Deputy Superintendent of the Denver Sluice Complex and commissioned the new sluice at Upware in December 1990. We met whilst both working in the drawing office at Eastern Electricity and we had two children. John developed thyroid cancer in 1989 and died in March 1991 just four weeks after becoming a grandfather."

Fuller Dr Keith (1940 entry): died on 18th January 2012 at the Sobell House Hospice in Oxford, aged 82. A regular attender of our reunions, he like the late David Kerridge in his year went on to gain a PhD in Biochemistry at Cambridge. He taught in the University at Oxford. Our condolences have been sent to his widow Sue and children David, Clare and Lyn. Philip Bobby 44 attended on behalf of the Grammarians: via Wilkes Walton/Roy Palmer and Helen Smith.

Fyson/Lennie, William 'Bill' J (1947 entry): passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday 12th January 2016 aged 79 years. Loving husband, dad and grandad. Sadly missed by all. Funeral service at St. Marys Church, Ely at 11.30am on Monday 1st February, followed by interment in Ely Cemetery. Donations to East Anglian Air Ambulance: via Brian Knott, who notes that Bill was Fyson when at SGS, but appears to have taken the name Lennie later. He had a younger brother, Chick Lennie.

Gamble, Frank (1963 entry) d 15 Jan 2005: via Ed Reed

Gammon, John R (1963 entry) d 10 Aug 2015: John was from Ely. He died aged 63 of cancer. A Benefit Gig was held held at the Kings Arms, St Mary Street, Ely on Friday 4th September 2015. His funeral service was at Cambridge Crematorium West Chapel on Monday 7th September 2015.

At the time the Coroners Office were trying to trace John's next of kin. He was featured in episode 10 of the BBC series Heir Hunters last shown on BBC1 on 25 August 2016: "Another team uncover the story of an orphaned Norfolk boy who went on to achieve great things in the music industry when he discovered a notable band of the 80s and carved out a well-respected career. The discovery of an heir who was close kin leads to poignant memories of a long-forgotten boyhood spent together."

At SGS he was Vice-Captain of Chicheley and also a Senior Prefect in the school year 1970-71 and can be found in some photos on this website.
He studied journalism at Harlow College. When he was recruited by Pollstar to report from the International Live Music Conference on a one-off basis the response to his coverage was so overwhelming that he became their longtime UK and Europe correspondent. His work anchored Pollstar’s international news pages up until his death. Pollstar's obituary for him adds: “It is difficult to encapsulate 15 years of collaboration into a paragraph. The best we can do immediately is say farewell and acknowledge his contribution to not only the company, but the concert industry as well.”

Industry tributes included Paradigm’s Steve Ferguson, who said Gammon introduced him to many cool acts that became his first clients. ILMC’s Terry McNally said: “I shall miss his blunt sense of humour and general love/hatred of the live industry.” Kilimanjaro Live’s Stuart Galbraith added: “John was a true character and we will miss our regular banter with him.” Annie Shackleton, of Ely City College, wrote: “Just the worst news! John was an absolute one off, and the wittiest and most entertaining of company. I first met him in 1980 and had recently caught up on social media. I had no idea he was terminally ill, but that’s typical John. RIP you lovely man xxx.” David Riley said: “A magic person and a magic agent to my first band Andy Pawlak when I was 17 when John worked with Mr Louis Parker’s Concorde.” Peter Smidt added: “Very very sad. Best live music bizz writer And truly nice person.”

He discovered 1980s pop sensation Katrina and the Waves and Kingmaker, the latter of whom could boast opening acts like Radiohead during its 90's heyday, and ran a promotions company called Ham Acts during the same period.

He lived on Cromwell Road in Ely and was a regular visitor to The Minster pub - he was always good for a music industry anecdote: via Peter Smith SG59 (whose brother Brian attended John's benefit gig at The Kings Arms in Ely - they were best mates at school) and others & Cam Times 17 Aug 2015, 31 Oct 2020.

Gandy, Ken (entry about 1935) d Oct 2004: shot down and evaded capture in WW2, founder member of the Ely Wildfowlers' Association

Garwood, Keith (1945 entry?) d 8 Jan 2005: son of the late Harriet and John Garwood, also educated at Stamford Technical School: draughtsman with Mirlees Blackstone and Fiat Allis: via John Wilson

Gentle, John Aubrey (1959 entry): d 24 April 2021, aged 73 years. A much loved dad, devoted grandad and soon to be great-grandad. A friend to everyone he met, he will be sadly missed by many. Due to current restrictions a private service was to be held at Cambridge Crematorium with a celebration of John’s life to be arranged upon the easing of restrictions. Donations, if desired can be made payable to Prostate Cancer UK and sent c/o Kingfisher Funeral Services, Gate Lodge, Cemetery Road, St Neots PE19 2BX. (01480) 471001. One lady remembers him in the Guild coffee bar with other Cambridge-based Soham lads: Philip 'Sid' Cullum, Terry Impey and Mervyn Hardwick: first reported by Pete Smith SG59.

Gillett, Colin (1946 entry): via Brian Knott

Gilbert, Luther (1930 entry): of Littleport, died on 27 April 2013, widower (Ena) aged 94. One of his sons, James (SG65), writes: Dad worked for an electrical firm in St Mary's St in sales/delivery after leaving school. He joined the RAF in Spring 1940, twice volunteering to be a pilot, but failing on medical grounds. He completed war service as ground crew, some of the time on 163 Squadron. After the war he gradually built up the farm. He had a lifetime association with St Matthew's Church where he was a choirboy, churchwarden etc. He left 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. His memorial service was at St George's Church, Littleport on 8th May 2013.

Gilbert, Robert WF (1937 entry): He died in August 1994 leaving his wife Doris and 7 children. He joined the Royal Navy in 1943 and served until 1947. He started and ran a family business in London until 1978. He then worked for Newham Council until retirement. He lived in Clacton on Sea and where he died at the age of 69: via Yvonne Gilbert, daughter.

Gipp, Peter (1946 entry) was an apprentice carpenter, served in the Royal Air Force and was known as Ely’s first traffic warden amongst other roles. Adam, one of Peter’s grandchildren, said: “He was always there; you can go to him and rely on him to be there and help out.” Peter died aged 87 on July 14. He took part in our reunion last year. Please click here for more on Peter from the Ely Standard.

Glover, Albert John (1922 entry): d 1987: His son Geoffrey Glover writes: His best friend from SGS days was Leslie Audus (left 1929) and they were at Cambridge together and kept in touch/met until my father's death. My father was born on 5th February 1911 in Little Downham, from where he attended SGS. From there he went to Fitzwilliam House in Cambridge from where he graduated with a degree in English. He was the first person from Little Downham to study at Cambridge University and was a sort of local celebrity in the village apparently for that achievement! He always used to tell me about his sessions with the famous FR Leavis who was one of his supervisors. Dad became a teacher until he joined the Royal Army Medical Corps in WWII and was posted to Cairo, Egypt.

After the war, he stayed in Egypt and moved to Alexandria, teaching English at the Farouk University, the Greek University and eventually permanently at the British Boys School. He also gave private lessons in English. It was while there that he wrote five books for English as a foreign language, all published by Dent.

It was in Alexandria that he met Toni who became his wife in 1946 and my mother in 1949. We were expelled from Egypt with other Europeans in 1953 by the Nasser regime, recalled soon afterwards, but then finally expelled during the Suez Crisis in November 1956. After teaching in London as a locum - he needed an income as we had lost everything in Egypt - Dad was appointed as an English teacher at Aylesbury Grammar School in 1957, becoming senior English Master a couple of years later. On his retirement my parents remained in Aylesbury. His ashes are buried in Little Downham cemetery which is where his father and mother and other relatives are buried. My mother moved in 1988 to live near me in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex. She died aged 94 in 2009 and she too is buried in Little Downham cemetery.

Goad, John (1963 entry): via FriendsReunited 17 July 2003
John died in July 2003. He leaves Alison his wife and two sons, Chris and James and stepdaughter Caroline. He worked for agricultural engineers in Ely and lived at his late parents' farm in Stretham.

Goodchild, Michael Colin (1951 entry) d 12 June 2020. Originally from Burwell, where he won a County Scholarship to SGS from St Andrews School in 1951. In 2015 he moved to Exning. He was a frequent attender at our reunions. On leaving SGS he went to Aston University where he obtained a degree in Building Management. He worked for Wates Construction in and around Birmingham area. In 1971 he moved back to Burwell and obtained the position of Head Planner with Sindall Construction of Cambridge where he stayed until he retired.

The announcement in the Newmarket Journal on 18 June 2020 read "Michael Goodchild of Burwell. Passed peacefully away at his home in Exning on Friday 12th June 2020, aged 79 years. Beloved husband to Gwenda. A much loved Dad of Delwyn and Melvina and devoted grandad to Charlie and Oliver. Due to current restrictions a private funeral service is to be held at The West Suffolk Crematorium, Bury St Edmunds. Family flowers only please but donations may be made payable to The Alzheimer's Society and sent care of Southgate of Newmarket Funeral Directors, 25 Duchess Drive, Newmarket CB8 8AG.": via Brian Thorby, who also provided information on Mike's career.

Griggs, Geoff (1960 entry) Alan Bray writes: I have heard from his wife Linda that Geoff Griggs passed away on 23rd June 2019. He had suffered many years with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and was admitted to Addenbrookes on 22nd June with pneumonia. His wife, son and daughter were with him. I knew him for 60 years and he was my Best Man back in 1970.

Geoff's funeral was at West Suffolk Crematorium, Risby, Bury St Edmunds IP28 6RR, at noon on Wednesday 10th July. The St Edmund's Chapel was packed. Among those attending were Alan Bray, John Dimmock, Paul Dunham, John Goodge and Frank Haslam.

Paul Dunham was one of those who gave a tribute. He and Geoff became friends in their latter years at SGS, sharing a strong interest in motorcycles. Geoff was contributing articles to Motor Cycle News when still at school. Geoff joined Darby's, an important civil engineering company but then joined the Post Office, latterly working in their HR Department. Their families were close and holidayed together. Paul had some anecdotes about Geoff's misadventures with various kinds of ball. Geoff had quite a following for his columns in the Ely Standard and Newmarket Journal (depending which one he had not fallen out with over payment) in which, true to himself, he spoke his mind. He was active in the local Rotary and Round Table. The editor adds: Geoff was of great help in the early days of this website and was often at our reunions when in good health.

Griggs, RF (1930s) d 2003: via his son Geoff Griggs

Grooms, Vernon (1942 entry): from the Newmarket Journal, 15 April 2010. Bill, as he was known, died at Addenbookes' on March 10 2010, aged 78. His funeral took place at St Peter's Church, Fordham, on March 19th. Born in Wicken, he was educated at SGS and served 18 years with the Royal Air Force. He had worked as a lorry driver for many years until retirement, with AA Griggs, CI Caravans and Turners (Soham). His wife Barbara died in 2001. He leaves a daughter and three sons.

Grover, John C (192? entry): It is with deep regret that we record the death of John C Grover recently, of peritonitis. He will be remembered by many for his spectacular long jumping and swerving run down the touch-line as wing three-quarter. The funeral took place at Fordham Cemetery, where the School was represented by Sargent and Gardiner, both of Fordham.: Soham Grammarian Summer 1949. JC Grover served in the RAF in WWII and is listed as a Sgt Parachute Instructor in the Army. He is in the 1929 school photo.

Gray, Tom (1960 entry): Tom was a retired police officer: d 13 Jan 2009: via David Camps

Greensmith, Brian (1967 entry) via Mike Gardner

Gutteridge, Desmond H (1934 entry): believed died 1999: Des was a gentleman's hairdresser with a barber's shop in St Mary's Street Ely, known for his eclectic taste in bow ties - he never cut without one. He joined his father in the business after leaving SGS and ran it until 1995. He was particular about who he served and the styles he cut. Woe betide a workman entering the shop in his dinner break or a teenager asking for a wayward style! His wife Joan ran a traditional sweet shop at the front of the premises, and the couple lived in the flat above and basement below. After finishing a cut Des would ring a handbell to give Joan ample time to emerge from the stairs into the shop to collect the fee due. His attention to detail and Joan's cleanliness ensured the business attracted a loyal clientèle which Des appreciated - so much so he didn't retire until aged 72, when he found a suitable successor to buy the business. He served in the RAF during WW2: via Darren Tebbitt.

Hall, Tony (1945 entry) died aged 78 on 17 December 2012. His funeral service was at Ely Methodist Church on 21 December 2012 : via Stan Harley, source Ely Standard, 20 December 2012.

Halls LRAM, Brian (1955 entry): died 4th January 1998 aged 54: widely respected teacher of the trumpet, band leader: local press.
From the Cambridgeshire Times, July 29th 1961 report on the 1961 SGS Speech Day:
"In speaking of the out-of-school activities, Mr Armitage had spoken of Brian Hall's success following his admission to the National Youth Orchestra by gaining a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music [Campbell-Clarke Wind Scholarship].
It was not the school custom to have musical items in the Speech day programme, but an opportunity was being given for the assembly to hear Halls, and Mr Armitage hoped that his success would spur other boys who had musical talent to work as hard and enthusiastically as he had.
At this stage Halls came forward with his now familiar trumpet to play the first movement of Orlando Gibbons' Trumpet Suite."

Hancock, Graham R (1954 entry): died 23rd November 2006 in London; he had been working in Warsaw as a freelance teacher of English: brother of Lindsay Hancock SG59, lived in Burwell when at SGS: via Wieslawa Barnas

Handley, Peter (1942 entry): passed away in Park House Nursing Home Peterborough aged 90 years. Dearly loved husband of Janet, much loved father of Michael, Stephen, David and Richard, dear grandfather of Martin, Robert, Emily and Charlotte and their partners and especially loved by his 10 great grandchildren. Funeral service at Holy Trinity Church Haddenham on Thursday October 14th at noon followed by interment in the parish cemetery. Peter got his School Certificate in 1947; Senior Agricultural Scholarship 1949; County Major Scholarship 1949; Prefect; Captain 1st XI Football 1948-9; Football Colours 1947-8; 2nd XI Cricket; Games Committee; Captain of Ridley. He attended Reunions, last in 2009: sources Ely Standard 30 Sep 21 and Ivor Wright SG43

Harmer, Terry (1944 entry): via Peter Hunt

Hart, Mr Lionel (French 1959-72) d 22 Sep 2007: Scouting and Chess: via Geoff Griggs

Harding, John (1962 entry): d2017: John Harding came from Prickwillow. His father, Fred, had also been at SGS and was the first person from Prickwillow to do so. He was married with two sons, and lived in Richmond-upon-Thames. He died in September 2017.

John was Head Boy in 1968. After reading English Literature at St Catherine's College, Oxford he moved to London in 1974, where he worked for as a reporter for DC Thomson. After eventually becoming an editor for several popular magazines, he went freelance in 1985 to pursue his ambition of becoming a novelist.

His first book novel, What We Did on Our Holiday was published in 2000: it describes a man taking his father, who has advanced Parkinson's disease, on holiday to Malta. It was adapted for TV in 2006 starring Shane Ritchie and Roger Lloyd-Pack. He would go on to publish four more novels, all of which received critical acclaim.

In 2005 he had an article published in The Sunday Times under the headline Escape from Prickwillow; the by-line was "as a youngster, novelist John Harding’s big ambition was to leave his bleak Fenland village far behind him". With thanks to Peter Smith SG'59', Chris Jakes SG65 and Wikipedia]

Harwood, Brian (1939 entry): of Soham, died on Monday 11th March 2013, aged 85 years. Beloved father of Jane and Jill, dearest grandfather to Hayley and Richard, dear great-grandfather to Jackson. Fondest fiancé of Ann: Ely Standard, March 14, 2013.

Hawes, Bill Hartley (1939 entry) d 16 Dec 2009: Albert William, known as Bill, died peacefully at home in Fordham aged 81 and was buried in the village parish churchyard on December 31 2009. Born in Wicken, he lived locally all his life and after SGS continued educating himself. He was a particularly staunch supporter of junior rugby at Ely Rugby Club which he co-founded some 60 years ago. "Known as the General in later years (as he tended to lead from the back) he still managed to score a try in his swansong game when he was in his 50s."

He was also one of the longest serving members of St Audrey's Lodge, Ely, having completed 50 years service back in 2005: via Keith Fuller.

Hawkins, John D (1951 entry) d June 2002, aged 61, the day after his 40th wedding anniversary. He was ill for many years and spent the last 5 months of his life in the hospice in Cambridge. Charlie Phelps was his best man when he married Pepi in Cambridge. He had three sons: via Charlie Phelps

Heaps, Douglas Joe (?1931 entry?) from the Heaps family farm in Haddenham. Identified on the 1935 School Photo. Taken ill during the 1942 Harvest and diagnosed with Leukaemia, dying six weeks later aged 22: via Darren Tebbitt, distantly related.

Heavens, Lewis Edmund LLB (1944 entry) d 7 July 2015 aged 82. The Funeral took place at St Dominic's Catholic Church, Downham Market, and Mintlyn Crematorium Kings Lynn on Thursday 23rd July 2015. The service was conducted by Father Michael Vulliamy.

Lewis was born in Ely, Cambridgeshire on the 19th February 1933. His parents Olive and Bernard raised four children and although there were difficulties in those hard times Lewis had fond memories of his childhood. He won a scholarship to Soham Grammar School and on leaving School Lewis joined the firm of Boots the Chemist who sponsored him for a degree in pharmacology at Nottingham University, once he completed his National Service with the RAF. However, his life changed as he decided he enjoyed the service life and so he joined the Suffolk County Police Constabulary in 1956.

Lewis married Sheila, an Ely High School girl, in 1958 (his sister Anne was also at EHS) and they had two children, four grandchildren and a great granddaughter. Lewis completed 25 years in the Police, serving in several areas including on the Directing Staff of the Police College, Bramshill, Hampshire. He retired as Chief Inspector from the Norfolk Police Force in 1981, to go on to study for a Degree in Law at The De Montfort University, two evenings a week whilst working for Ward Gethin, Solicitors in Kings Lynn.

Lewis never really retired. He taught Law at Thetford Sixth Form College and elsewhere until he was finally persuaded to give up at the age of seventy-five, due to his health. During the following years he committed himself wholeheartedly to charity work with Soham Staploe Rotary Club, which he loved dearly and was given The Paul Harris Fellowship Award. His life long love of classical music saw him singing with the Norwich Philharmonic Choir and then later but no less lustily with his friends (who sang at his funeral) The Kings Lynn Male Voice Choir. He was a regular at The Proms in London and the Kings Lynn Festival. Notwithstanding an always busy schedule, he always found time to visit his local pub for a pint or two.

Lewis was a loving man and loved his family dearly. One thing for sure, if you ever found yourself in trouble, Lewis would move mountains to help you; he extended this generosity of spirit not only to his own family but to anyone who came to him with a problem. He was a very open-hearted man. His love for his family was unconditional and expansive and while we shall all miss him greatly, we can always remind ourselves that Dad, Grandad, Great Grandad, Lew, Lewis Heavens, was essentially a good man, a man of good heart. There is no more an appropriate epitaph for him. Sheila adds 'He enjoyed attending the Reunions and was very proud of his old school, although he was not able to attend these last couple of years. He suffered from heart trouble and also lung problems kept him on constant oxygen in later times.'

Henderson Phillip (1964 entry) of Soham passed away on 14th October 2017 aged 65 years. Beloved husband of Carol, a wonderful dad, stepdad, grandad, brother and uncle. Funeral service at St Andrew’s Church, Soham on Friday 27th October 2017 at 1 pm, followed by private family committal. Family flowers only but donations to the Hospice at Home Team may be left at the service or sent to C E Fuller and Co, 23 Hall Street, Soham CB7 5BN Tel 01353 720439. Via Geoff Griggs.

Hepher, Cyril Frank (1925-6 entry): b September 1914, d 2006: via his daughter, Ann Munn

Hemmings, Mr Gordon (English 1958-66) d 6 Jul 2011: a fine teacher remembered especially for many productions and the school magazine: via his daughters Elizabeth and Rosemary.

Herod, Peter (1951 entry) : I regret to advise you that my brother, Peter Herod died on Monday 6 August 2012 in Weston super Mare Hospital having suffered severe heart problems for a considerable time. He played both cricket and football for the school and even played three games for Cambridge United before taking up his engineering apprenticeship in Bristol in the aircraft industry. He lived in the West Country for the rest of his life moving recently to Nailsea where he was supported through his illness by his daughter who lived close by. From Steve Herod SG57.

Mike Hallam 51 adds: In late 1955 the Headmaster announced in assembly that a sum of money had been bequeathed to the school to be offered annually as grants to encourage adventure among the SGS boys. Peter Herod and I sat up in our SGS dormitory beds and planned a cycling expedition from Cambridge to the Mediterranean and back. Not paying attention in Geography lessons may have been the reason we failed to notice that the brown bits in the school atlas were the Alps! We were given £20 each in 1956 by SGS. The two of us biked 1900 miles in 4 weeks and wrote up our story for the school library. Peter was wiry and tough and I had a job to keep up with him. It was an endurance test neither of us would forget. Sorry we lost touch later.

Hiblin, Colin Richard (1937 entry): Colin Hiblin of Littleport passed peacefully away on Wednesday, June 9th, 2010 aged 83 years. Beloved husband of Brenda and friend to many. Funeral Service at St George's Church, Littleport on Thursday, June 24th at 11am followed by committal at Cambridge City Crematorium. Family flowers only, but donations if desired for the Alzheimers Disease Society. Colin is on the 1939 School Photo and was one of the 1939 Sports Day Winners: added 9 Sep 2021, source June 17, 2010 in the Ely Standard

Hobbs, Brenda Mary: Mrs Brenda Bott: School Cook 1945--52: Passed away peacefully on Sunday 3rd March 2024, aged 98 years. Dearly loved by her daughter Ann and son-in-law Mick, beloved nan to Hayden, Marc, Marta and Susie and dear 'GG' to Theo. A wonderful lady and a true inspiration to all who knew and loved her. Funeral service to be held at West Suffolk Crematorium on Thursday 4th April at 12 noon. Family flowers only, but if desired donations may be made payable to "The East Anglian Children's Hospice" and sent to Southgate of Newmarket, 25 Duchess Drive, Newmarket, CB8 8AG. Published by Newmarket Journal on Mar. 14, 2024. Ivan Whymer SG56 and his wife attended her funeral.

Hobbs, David (1949 entry): d 11 May 2016. Mrs Rosalind Hobbs informed us of the death of her husband David. He was a Burwell boy. His mathematical aptitude flourished under Mr Lawrance, who encouraged him to go up to Cambridge. He went on to become a teacher and though he spent most of his life in Devon, he never lost his love of the Fen Country. David was an academic at the University of Exeter in mathematics education, and contributed to writing a series of influential text books for school mathematics, as part of the School Mathematics Project. Well regarded and widely used books included 101 Mathematical Projects (Hobbs, 1989) and A Mathematical Dictionary for Schools (Bolt & Hobbs, 1998). These introduced many concepts of modern mathematics at school level for the first time.
He was also interested in the performance of magic. Bob Cropley SG49 recalls that when they left SGS David gave his close friends each a card on which was written a very long number specific to them. He told them that whenever they met again, no matter how long that might be, they were to ask him for their number. Bob said David never failed to recall his number.
David's wife Rosalind was a primary school teacher. Their daughter Catherine is a British mathematician and educator working as a professor at the University of the West of England, Bristol.

Holland, Michael J (1960 entry): Michael Holland died on 23 March aged 64. He had been active in producing Amateur Dramatics in Ely over the years so was well known in the area. It is thought that before retiring he had been at Cambridge Regional College as a lecturer in Business Studies - possibly retailing, and before with John Lewis in Cambridge. Funeral - Wednesday May 1st at 11.15a.m. in the West Chapel at Cambridge Crematorium. Donations in aid of the Terrence Higgins Trust: via Donald Monk and John Dimmock.

Holliday, Kenneth Herbert James (1939 entry): died on 5 January 2020 aged 91. Much loved and missed by family and friends. His cousin Heather Smith (ex-EHS) writes: He was born 24 December 1928 at Stretham. I don’t expect many people remember him as he joined the Navy straight from school just after the end of WW2 and hasn’t lived in the area since. He travelled the world with the Navy specialising in radar and spent his last two years of service in Cape Town where he was joined by his wife and son and his daughter was born there in 1958. His funeral will be at Earlham Crematorium in Norwich on 29th January at 11am.

Holliday, Morley (1958 entry). Heather Smith, his sister (ex-EHS), writes: Morley was in school from 1958 to 1965. He and Maureen retired to Spain six years ago. Despite rheumatoid arthiritis, Morley thoroughly enjoyed life there. After several infections this Summer he was diagnosed with leukaemia in the middle of August and died peacefully in Alicante General Hospital on 24th September. As he donated his body to medical research there was no funeral but I am going to a celebration of his life at the English Speaking Club in El Campello near Alicante on 3rd November.

His widow Maureen adds: Morley and I married in August 1969 and we had two sons. He pursued his interest in football and F1 motor racing throughout his life and passed on his interest to both to his sons. He enjoyed socialising, good food and wine and since our move to Spain was a keen member of the Costa Blanca Wine Society. We also enjoyed travel and went round the world for our 30th wedding anniversary in 1999 in just under 3 weeks! He loved soul and blues music and our last concert was in Cartagena to see Gregory Porter, which he really enjoyed.

Morley developed a career in IT, starting work for The British Insurance Association (now the Association of British Insurers) as a computer operator. He worked for a number of companies, both as an employee and a contractor. His last job was as a director of Cable & Wireless, which took him to the Far East and Australia. Once he left his real career (as he used to say) he then opened a branch of Sevenoaks Sound and Vision in Nottingham where he pursued his enthusiasm for high end hi-fi and home cinema. In retirement we moved from the East Midlands to live in a small town north of Alicante on the Costa Blanca. Morley loved living here as he enjoyed the Spanish way of life and he took part in a number of activities almost to the end of his life. He was 67.

Holmes, Michael John (1949 entry). Neil Holmes SG52 writes: My older brother Michael Holmes died at his home in South Wales on January 7th 2016, aged 77. He was a member of the School Scouts and was a Yeoman in the Yeomen of the Guard 1955 school production. Three Holmes brothers attended SGS (Paul SG46, Michael SG49 and Neil SG52), but the eldest had left before the youngest joined. However they may hold a record of continuous attendance at SGS, from 1946 to 1960. After doing his National Service Mike was a career employee in the Forestry Commission. He lived the last 30 years or so of his life in the Forest of Dean and died in his house in a small hamlet near St. Arvans, Chepstow, Monmouthshire (now called Gwent). His funeral was on 5th February 2016 at the Forest of Dean Crematorium.

Holt, Greg (1960 entry): son of Ken Holt: "I attended Soham myself for just two terms, Autumn 1960 and Spring 1961, before we moved to Devon.". He died on 26 July 2020 at home in Cornwall, where he lived on and off for many years. Greg had a very interesting career in music: via his partner Katy Hordern.

Michael Yeomans SG60 writes: I was sorry to hear this news. Greg and I were good friends during the time that he lived in Ely. We both attended the Silver Street School for Junior Boys where Greg’s father was a teacher. Greg and I were both musicians and we used to visit each other’s homes to play together. The Holt family lived in Broad Street, Ely in the school house attached to the Broad Street School and I used to enjoy going there. Sometimes I would take my cornet and Greg would play piano. We started together at SGS in 1960, and the music teacher, Michael Ades, gave us some basic music harmony lessons together in the lunch break. Greg was soon writing music of his own, which impressed me greatly. I was very sad when the Holt family moved away and I often wondered what became of Greg. I am not surprised that he went on to a distinguished career in music.

Another SG60 musician, Eric Pearson, writes: Greg was a flautist, possibly even clarinet, came over to Littleport couple of times when I still lived there, then I thought he moved down west. I am so glad that I can close the file, I had hoped he would pop up on the internet at this October's Reunion via Zoom.

Holt DFC, Ken: (left in 1938): Andrew Kenneth Holt died in 2013 - see the link for more information

Hopkin, Keith JF (1945 entry): Retired area manager Mr Keith James Flanders Hopkin (75), of Ravenshead, was cremated at Mansfield after a service at the crematorium chapel. A local resident for 35 years, Mr Hopkin was born at Barton Mills in Suffolk, and educated at Soham Grammar School, Cambridgeshire, before furthering his education at a London polytechnic. Until retiring in 1986 he was area manager for British Road Services haulage company. His interests included socialising with his friends, stocks and shares, nature, sport, holidays at his Spanish villa and at Southwold in Suffolk, and all aspects of family life: via Google

Howard, Ken (1942 entry): John Dimmock and Cyril Eden write: Kenneth (Ken) Howard of Chettisham near Ely sadly passed away on 14th December 2002 at the age of 71. The funeral service took place on 20th December at Chettisham Parish Church, where he had been Church Warden for fifty years. He was a member of the Friends of the Princess of Wales Hospital for many years and Chairman for the last thirteen. He apparently farmed with his father at Chettisham and Ely. A larger than life character, who will be greatly missed by the people of Ely. A memorial concert featuring the Thurnscoe Male Voice Choir took place on 15th March 2003.

Howlett, Ivan (1937 entry): died 1995: via Stephen Martin

Hoxley, Jack (1936 entry, from Registers, though Jack thought 1935) aged 93, in Newmarket. His wife, Sheila, aged 92 years had passed away a few weeks earlier on 7 October 2017. A joint funeral service was held at St Mary’s Church, Newmarket, on Tuesday 31st October. They had enjoyed a happy marriage for 70 years, parents of Michael, Jill and Peter. His cousin Roger Wright believes Jack was at SGS in 1935, "and was a GPO telephone engineer, at one time riding a motor-bike and sidecar, like they did. There are a lot of articles on the internet by him, about Newmarket."

Humphreys, John (peer group 1950 entry): died aged 72 on 7th February 2012. His obituary appeared on the Daily Telegraph website on 19 March. Formerly Deputy Warden at Bottisham Village College he wrote for country publications and authored several books on life in the Fens. He also had an extensive obituary in the Shooting Times. First news of his death came from Richard Doe.

Humphry, Mr John (Geography 1965-72): d2021

Jarrett, Mrs Jill, (later Mrs Jill Petrulewicz), Housekeeper 1960-72: d May 2011: via Phil Lane

Jelleyman, Barry (1949 entry): d 12 July 2015 Addenbrooke's Hospital, aged 77. His funeral was on 28th July at St Peter's Church, Fordham. He was educated at Fordham School and SGS. He did his National Service in Germany as a military police dog handler. He was a draughtsman and a car salesman. A keen artist, he enjoyed country pursuits and walking his dogs. His calligraphy skills were made use of by Tattersalls and his village church. He was survived by his wife Eileen and three sons and four grandchildren. Source: Newmarket Journal 6 Aug 2015

Jennings, Peter R (1949 entry): came from Burwell: via Clive Bray

Johnson, Mr LG Jugger or Bish English, 1922-53

Kerridge, David (1940 entry): d Aug 2008: via Keith Fuller who writes: David was one of the group who re-established the Old Soham Grammarians after the war. He played a part for many years on its committees and regularly attended dinners until prevented by Parkinson's disease.

Kitchen, Leon (History 51-57): d 2 Dec 2020 aged 93.

Knights, Don (1939 entry): d 7 August 2008. Alan Barber 59 writes (May 2009) that according to Don's son Richard, Don passed the 11 plus two years early and was therefore always two years ahead of his class. Don, who was born on 2 March 1929,was originally from Sutton but had lived in Harrow, Middlesex since 1960. He worked as an accountant.
"Don, Richard and myself have or had a mutual interest in bellringing. Don rang in the special peal rung by Soham Grammarians to mark the closure of the school as such in July 1972. The other participants in that peal besides Don and myself were Barry Bass (Ely), Roger Palmer (Fordham), John Couperthwaite (formerly Burwell) and Dick Housden who was both a former pupil and teacher at the school who was from Burwell. Incidentally I regularly see Dick's son Jeremy who is also a bellringer and presently lives in Cumbria."

Kon, Herman came to SGS in 1940/41 as an evacuee: died in 2019

Lancaster MBE AE, RAuxAF(Retd), Sqn Ldr Ivan (1937 entry): d April 2005: via Chris Bent. Deborah Evans, his daughter, writes: My father remained very much an 'RAF Man' after his wartime service, serving initially with the RAFVR, the RAFVR(T) and then the RAuxAF until his retirement in 1987. He was also an active Glider Pilot until the late 1970s. Indeed it was his love for the Service that prompted my gaining a Commission and going for Aircrew. He never lost his love for 'The Fens' and, after his retirement, moved with my late Mother to a village near Wisbech. I moved to the area in 2005 after my Father's death, to become my Mother's Carer (sadly she died in late 2008) and I never left.

Lane, Brian Malcolm (1948 entry) died on 22nd May 2017 aged 80. Brian made a successful career of his hobby, photography, and there are numerous photos taken by him on the SGS and EHS websites. In recent years he had been resident at the Cambridge Manor Care Home. Our condolences go to his widow Beth and the family. Brian's funeral was at 10.30am on Thursday 15th June 2017 at March Crematorium. If desired donations may be made in his memory for Children United! sent to Ely Funeral Service, 4 Tower Road, Ely, CB7 4HW - via Donald Monk and Brian Knott

Lane, Rex (1943 entry): d 23 Apr 2007: via Brian Lane

Lane, Roger (1949 entry): d 29 May 2009 aged 70: a tireless worker for both the life of the town of Soham and of the SGS OBs: via Geoff Griggs

Lane, Russell M (1946 entry) has died aged 84. He was the elder brother of Brian Lane. His funeral is on Thursday 19th December at March (Fenland) Crematorium at 10.30am then afterwards at the Golf Club next door: via Mrs Beth Lane 4 Dec 2019

Lavender, John (Jack) (probably 1931 entry): d Jan 28 2011 aged 90: of St Mary's Street, Ely. Born in Ely in 1920, a pupil at Soham Grammar School until 1936, where he played rugby, leaving at the age of 16 when he joined Jeffersons as a monotype keyboard operator and proof reader. Joined the Territorial Army before war was declared, called up into the Cambridgshire Regiment, serving in Egypt, Italy and Malta. Loving husband of Edna and brother to Myrtle. Funeral on Feb 11 2011 at Cambridge City Crematorium: source Ely Standard on 10 March 2011, via Stan Harley.

Lawrance, Mr Albert E Punch Mathematics, 1952-64: d 1989

Leland, David (1952 entry): Mike Reeve SG 52 reports the death of David Leland on 24 December 2023. David found success in the entertainmnet world and was a BAFTA winner. Please click on David's link for more information.

Leonard, Edward (1884 entry): The death of Mr Edward Leonard occurred last December [1953] at his home, The Hall, Soham. He was born in Soham in 1873 and won a scholarship to the Grammar School. He was not only a fine business man, but also an active participant in Soham's local government. He was best known to us in his position of Chairman of the School Governors. Mr Leonard made his last speech to the School on Speech Day 1952, and retired from his post on the Governing Board last year. Soham Grammarian Summer 1954.

Leonard, John (1956 entry): death reported in September 2018 by Ralph Dunham SG59. John was his neighbour in Ely but had moved to Melton Mowbray in Leicestershire.
The Melton Times, 1st March 2018: LEONARD John Leslie. Passed away on 19th February 2018. Loving husband of Margaret a much loved dad to Rachel. Funeral Service will take place at Loughborough Crematorium on Friday 9th March at 11.00am followed by a Service to celebrate John's life at Sage Cross Methodist Church at 12.15pm.

Ralph adds: We were both greatly involved in Scouts and on a camp in Cornwall were walking with another, younger scout (blonde-haired) whose name escapes me, by the fast flowing River Fowey; this chap decided to go in the water, only to find the current was more powerful than anticipated. This, plus water depth, meant he was clearly losing his footing and would surely have been swept away and probably drowned. John - stronger than me - immediately waded in to grab him whilst I acted as "anchor man" on the water's edge. As far as I remember this was never mentioned to anyone else on camp or later at school. John clearly was an unsung hero!

Leonard, Peter (entry year 1965) Guardian obituary

Leonard, Robert John (Bob) (1941 entry) LEONARD Robert John (Bob) passed away at Longueville Court Nursing Home, Peterborough on 15th November 2014, aged 85 years. The funeral service was be held on Tuesday 2nd December, 1pm at Peterborough Crematorium. Family flowers only please, donations may be sent if desired for Macmillian Nurses c/o Crowsons Funeral Directors, 48 Barnwell, Nr Oundle, Peterborough. PE8 5PS: Peterborough Telegraph & Citizen on 27th November 2014

Lester, John George(1937 entry) known as George, died on 16th July. George usually came to our reunions with his son John SG65. More information to be added.

Lister, John Hamlin (1936 entry): d 27 July 2011 after a long illness, aged 87, Burwell born, he had lived in Cheveley and was educated at Soham Grammar School. He was in the Royal Engineers 1942-47, at one time stationed in Hamburg, and served throughout Europe, though apparently not listed by the Soham Grammarian as 'among those serving'. He supported the Ghurka Welfare Trust, was a member of the Newmarket Homing Society for 40 years, and had played football for teams in Burwell, Exning and Fordham. His funeral was at Risby on August 8 2011: source Newmarket Journal, 8 Sep 2011

Lockwood, Jack (Minor Scholarship 1925 or 26) d 18 Feb 2009 aged 94: via Chris Bent

Lowe, Miss AE Housekeeper 1946-1958

Lowe, Bryan (1960 entry) died 17 March 2011 aged 61 years: born in 1949, Bryan was at SGS 1960-68: Loving father of Gregory, Edward and Duncan, dear brother of Beryl and cherished son of the late Vera Langley and Reg Lowe. Funeral Service on April 8th at 12.15pm at St Nicholas Church, Harpenden. Published in the Ely Standard on 31st March 2011: via Bill Peters
Michael Yeomans 60 adds: Bryan was one of my best friends from SGS, and junior and primary schools in Ely. That is really too young. He was a gifted linguist and mathematician, and we kept in touch for a while after university, but then I lost touch with him.

Lythell, Peter John (1943 entry): d 17 Dec 2009, aged 77: via John Kisby

MacKenzie, Bill (1969 entry)
Bill's widow Liz writes: After Bill left Soham Grammar he went to CCAT (Cambridgeshire College of Arts and Technology) to take his A levels. That was where we met in 1976, we got married in 1979 and we have two daughters. Bill worked in production management. He enjoyed travelling and arranged really brilliant holidays for us. He was a very kind and thoughtful person who would always take the time to help anyone. He died suddenly in late 2002.

Makin, RJH, Science 1961-72: John Makin died aged 62 on 9th February 1986: via his son Andrew.

Mann, Tom (?1931 entry): Tom Mann was born in Greenhills, Soham 28 June 1920, one of eight children. He joined the RAF in 1940 (38 Squadron) as a wireless operator and air gunner in Wellington Bombers, reaching the rank of Warrant Officer. After being demobbed in 1946 he went back to his job at Liverpool Victoria Insurance on Fore Hill in Ely where he worked until his retirement. He enjoyed sports, played football for Fordham, darts for The Black Bull Pub, Ely and bowls at Ely Bowls Club. He was a keen gardener and loved to spend time on his allotment on Stuntney Causeway, Ely. Tom was a family man, married to Irene for 42 happy years, initially living in Fordham and then Ely. They had 3 children Michael, Den and Julie. He sadly passed away in the RAF Hospital, Ely on 28 August 1990 aged 70. Via his daughter Julie Ogle.

Mann, Tony (1942 entry): It was with great regret that we learned of the death of TWE Mann, who was drowned while on holiday at Yarmouth on July 12th [1950]. Tony was well-known for his keenness for long distance running. Both members of the School and the Old Boys' Club express their deepest sympathy for Tony's parents. (Soham Grammarian, Summer 1950)

Martin, Barrie (Barry) John (1950 entry): passed away on 16th December 2015, at the age of 76, after a long illness. His wife Eileen passed away several years previously. Believed he came from Little Downham originally. He did well at SGS and eventually joined the Huntingdonshire Constabulary. On his retirement from the Force, he worked for the Post Office in Papworth Everard. Huntingdon, where he lived: via Roger Wright 49

Martin, Brian L (1949 entry)
Catherine Jay writes: My father, an Ely boy, was an only child. He joined Lloyds Bank after leaving SGS and retired in 1992 having reached the position of senior bank manager. He was married to Patricia and had three daughters. His hobbies included listening to classical music and model railways. He died on 15th July 2007, aged 69.

Martin, Joshua (believed 1921-25): d 9 Jan 11, aged 101, via his grandaughter Kate Bavester.

Martin, Dr Leslie A (1934 entry)
Died 31 Dec 2003: retired as a University Librarian at Edinburgh University: via his brother R Vincent Martin (1939)

Marven, John (1944 entry): d 13 August 2018: His widow Janet Marven writes "staff were there which is amazing, considering how long it is since he retired.John was born and brought up in Ely, a city he had a great affection for. His father was a Tax Inspector for many years and was highly respected.
All John’s family were committed Congregationalists and he and his parents were very involved in the Countess of Huntingdon Church in Ely and their social life seemed to revolve around the church. This had a profound influence on John’s life.
John attended Soham Grammar School, eventually becoming Head Boy. From there he went to University College, Leicester to read Physics and Maths and while there he took up rowing which he thoroughly enjoyed, taking part in competitions on the Trent and the Thames. He was also the College Rag organiser, being particularly proud to have had Humphrey Lyttleton to perform at an event he had organised. These seem to have been very happy days and he left university looking forward to doing his National Service.

Shortly afterwards he met Janet and six weeks later joined the Royal Army Education Corps. In September 1958 John began his teaching career at the King Edward VIth Grammar School for Boys in Chelmsford, teaching Physics and Maths, He became a Second Lieutenant in the Cadet Force which the boys were encouraged to join; he particularly enjoyed driving the lorry laden with supplies to the annual camps in Scotland.

John and Janet were married in St. John’s Church in Chelmsford in March 1959, setting up home in Broomfield, just outside Chelmsford. John continued to study in the evenings at Birkbeck College in London, gaining an MSc in Nuclear Physics.
In 1968 hemade a career move having been appointed Schools Adviser with special responsibility for science teaching in schools in Cambridgeshire and the Isle of Ely. The family, now busy with three children, moved to Milton. The new job entailed a great deal of travelling around the county, visiting both Primary and Secondary Schools.

Having spent a term successfully resolving serious problems in a school in the north of the county, John was invited in 1970 to go to Sawston Village College where a difficult situation had arisen. Consequently the Governors asked if he could be appointed as Warden of the College, a post he filled for twenty-four years. To quote from the Best Schools Guide : “John Marven has seen the transformation of a struggling Secondary Modern school into a flourishing Community College which attracts visitors from all parts of the world to see how the vision of Henry Morris has become a reality”. John devoted himself whole-heartedly to the College and in 1979 he was awarded a Schoolmaster’s Fellowship in recognition of his work. He spent a very interesting year at St. John’s College in Cambridge. When John's funeral took place John’s funeral took place on Friday, August 31st over 200 people attended. I am told that fifty former members of staff were there which is amazing, considering how long it is since he retired.

After his retirement, John was invited to become Vice-Chairman of the John Huntingdon’s Charity, a role which he found very fulfilling. Amongst other things he oversaw the building of the new Sawston Nursery in Tannery Road, taking a great interest in its development.

He also began researching his Family History which became an absorbing hobby. John was also extremely interested in the history of the two World Wars and read extensively about them.

Gardening became an absorbing pleasure, especially growing vegetables. He was a founder member of the Sawston Rotary Club. He was very supportive of the Sawston Fun Run. In his latter years, John was dogged by health problems and, reluctantly, had to give up most of these activities.He was essentially a very quiet, calm, patient and very thoughtful man who enjoyed the simple things of life. He was very supportive and encouraging and always saw the best in people.

Mason, Alan John (Lab Technician 1966-72). Alan died at home aged 77 on 27 August 2021 after a long period of illness. Much loved husband, dad and grandad, who will be greatly missed by all his family and many friends. Funeral Service at Soham Methodist Church on Friday 17th September at 12.30pm followed by burial at Soham Cemetery. Flowers or donations if desired, made payable to Arthur Rank Hospice Charity (for Hospice at Home) may be left at the service or sent c/o R. J. Pepper & Son Family Funeral Directors 27, High Street, Soham, Ely Cambs, CB7 5HA Tel: 01353 720222.
via Ed Reed and published in the Newmarket Journal on Sept. 9, 2021

Matthews, Geoffrey (1950 entry): d 17 June 2017 in hospital after a short illness, aged 77. Funeral at Cambridge City Crematorium on Saturday 1st July 2017. Geoff was a Burwell lad, passing the 11+ from St Andrew's School in the village to come to SGS. He was apprenticed to Slater, Dominic & Swan in Newmarket, later joining Bidwells. Vivienne and Geoff were married at St Andrew's Newmarket. They moved to Chesterton, then Trumpington, Hauxton and finally Willingham. There were three children, Stewart, Richard and Stella. He had many interests - racing pigeons, breeding various kinds of birds, gardening, playing football for Bidwells, DIY, holidays abroad and avidly supporting Cambridge United: via Mrs Viv Matthews

McLaren, Robin Ivor (entry year late 1920s) of Sutton, formerly of the garage Haddenham, passed away peacefully at Hinchingbrooke Hospital on Monday 24th August 2009, aged 93. The service of thanksgiving was at St Andrew's Church, Sutton on 4th September: via Brian Knott

Merry, Anthony (1946 entry): died in Essex in 2019: via Brian Knott

Merry, Dennis (1946 entry): died in Ely in 2015: via Brian Knott

Medlock, Robert (1968 entry) of Cambridge, died on 12th March 2015 aged 58. His funeral was on 21st April at the Chapel, Newmarket Road Cemetery Cambridge. He contributed several items to this website: announcement in the Cambridge News, via Colin Hambidge

Miller, Brian 'Dusty' (1950 entry): Brian 'Dusty' Miller died 1st December 2017 in Hay on Wye aged 78. Terry Rule SG55 writes that Brian 'travelled on the same bus as myself from Swaffham Bulbeck. He was the husband of my brother in law's niece.' According to the 1957 Speech Day programme Brian was awarded a Ministry of Agriculture Junior Scholarship. Terry has confirmed previously tentative identifications of Brian on the Form 3B, March 1953 photo and the 1952 and 1954 School photos.

Miller, Eric G (b1925, mid 1930s entry) d2002: lived in Ely: via Donald Monk

Mitchell, William James (1936 entry?) from Summer 1964 SG
Formerly of Haddenham, he died at Ratcliffe Hospital Oxford in December 1963. He was employed at the Pressed Steel Works at Oxford.
Served with Suffolk Regiment in Burma; kept goal for Haddenham Rovers, played for Pressed Steel; SGS Cricket 1st XI (Cambridgeshire Times 3 Jan 64)

Moore, Gerry (1950 entry): via Charles Smith

Morley, Stan (c1918) d1989: via his grandaughter Sarah

Morton, Michael ('1954' entry): d2015: to be added

Munns, Richard Billy (1954 entry) d2007: via Alan Barber

Murfet, Don (1944 entry) d2000: Alan Barber writes: Don or Dumps as he was affectionately known was born on Christmas Day 1933 and lived in Sutton (in the Isle) all his life. I knew him very well as we did a lot of bellringing together. See Alan's appreciation of Don.

Murfitt, John S (1946 entry) d2008 aged 72: his funeral was on 9th July 2008. John was a farmer, who took over from his father. He was at Cliff College, the Methodist Training College in Derbyshire, before returning to farm. He was a staunch Methodist and a Methodist Local preacher for many years: via Donald Monk.

Nash, Hubert (1948 entry): d 23 Aug 2010 aged 73. Brought up in Isleham, he made a career in the Civil Service, latterly living near Colchester. He was the brother in law of Donald Monk: via Donald Monk

Neathercoat, Ernest T (entry 1893): d1951: former President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. He presided at the dedication of the School's WWI Memorial (Soham Grammarian, Summer 1951)

Newell, Geoffrey JA (1951 entry): d March 2015 aged 74: Geoff Newell worked with his father Jack on his family's farm in Haddenham after leaving SGS. In 1962 he married Margaret and they had five children. He was the last farmer in the village to have a dairy herd. After he quit milking in 1987 he specialised in beef. He retired in 2005 and enjoyed wood turning: via his neighbour Darren Tebbitt

Newton, Trevor (1944 entry) passed away peacefully on September 22nd 2017 following a short illness. He was 84. His funeral took place on Thursday 12th October at Old Newton Methodist Church in Stowmarket: via Mrs Christine Newton.

Nicholas, Roger (1959 entry): d 26 June 2015: Roger NICHOLAS (Fred) of Little Downham died suddenly at home on Friday June 26th 2015, aged 67 years. Dearly loved husband of Glynis, loving dad of Rachel, Adeline and Felicity, devoted grandad of Ruby, Lois, Isobelle, Delilah and Harry, a much loved father in law, a dear brother and friend of many who will be sadly missed. Funeral service at St Leonards Church, Little Downham on Tuesday July 14th at noon followed by private cremation : 1ia his widow Glynis

Norris, Richard (1963 entry), in a car accident ca 1972: via Dudley Walton

Norton, David (1942 entry) d 23 May 2010, aged 79, from Burwell: via John Kisby

Nunn, EBA - Brian (1951 entry) d 2006: via David Reader

Nunn, Desmond Harold (1944 entry)
It was with deep regret that the school learned of the death on 6th August 1951, after an operation earlier in the year, of Desmond Nunn who had been so lately one of us. For five years from 1944-49 we had known his happy smile, his gay manner, his cheerfulness under all circumstances and it is by these characteristics that we shall remember him. One of the original members of the Boarding House when it was formed in 1946, Desmond quickly made his personality felt and his contribution to the happy family spirit that was fostered there was a great one. No boy can have had more friends and no boy was his enemy. He died as he had lived - bravely, fearlessly, and without complaint - an example to us all.
(Soham Grammarian, Autumn 1951)

O'Gorman, Mrs Marie (Maths, towards the end of WW2): died 20 December 2019 in her hundredth year. A Requiem Mass was held at Newmarket Roman Catholic Church on January 20th 2020 to celebrate her life. Peter Nicholls SG39 remembered her as one of the wartime staff and alerted us to her passing. An obituary was published in the Newmarket Journal on 3oth January 2020.

Page, Michael (1955 entry)
Died tragically at his home in Haddenham in December 1963. Michael (Aggie) was a student at Selwyn College Cambridge and was conducting an experiment at his home when he died of accidental cyanide poisoning.

Pamment, Mervyn (1953 entry): died suddenly on 11 February 2022, aged 79. His funeral was on Wednesday March 30 at the North East Surrey Crematorium, Morden, London SM4 4NU. Frank Greig SG52 writes: Mervyn and I kept in touch over the years via Facebook. We were both young reporters on the Ely Standard before our journalism took us on different paths – he to Fleet Street and me around the world. It is a sad day.

His daughter Debbie has provided this article which was written for the Ely Standard and the Mirror Group:

Mervyn Pamment was born in Fordham in 1942, attended Fordham Junior School and then went to Soham Grammar School.

Mervyn began his career as a junior reporter on the Ely Standard. Mervyn was also a local retained Fireman whilst living in Ely. In 1963 he started freelancing at Mirror Group. He was offered a full-time position on the news desk at The People and served his later years there as picture editor.

He then moved on to a news agency in Nottingham, and later went to Eddie Shah’s Today – which closed in 1995. Mervyn freelanced from home for the Mail and Mail on Sunday and other publications, before a permanent move to the Mail – which is where he stayed for about ten years, until he retired.

A man of many talents, Merv, as he was known, with his '"Wait one [minute]" catchphrase, held diverse positions on The People ... from reporter to agony aunt, to Assistant News Editor under David Farr. Mervyn also had his own column – Pamment’s People – which featured gossip from Society and showbiz around the world.

When Denis O’Brien took over as picture editor at The People under Nick Lloyd, Mervyn moved from the news desk to the picture desk and became deputy Picture Editor. Eventually, he was promoted to Picture Editor.

After moving from Ely to St Ives, Cambridgeshire with his first wife Carole and daughters Debbie and Allison, Mervyn continued to be a local retained fireman. This came in handy at The People, where he doubled as a fire marshal – when one day, clouds ofsmoke drifted from the office of Editor Ernie Burrington. With shouts of: “Stand by!” Merv grabbed the nearest fire extinguisher, burst into Ernie’s office, and aimed it at the blazing wastepaper basket – where Ernie had discarded one of his many fags.The Editor was not best pleased, and words ensued. Not nice words.

Mervyn’s daughters from his first marriage, Debbie and Allison, have five children between them and two grandchildren. They all still live in Cambridgeshire. In 1995, Mervyn moved to Wallington, Surrey working from there at the Mail until he retired aged 68, and enjoyed golf, gardening and date-nights with his second wife Susan, who had two children, Nicola and Liza, who have seven children between them.

At his funeral we were also reminded of his interest in sport and his great love of golf.

via Debbie Fitzgerald (dau) and Frank Greig
See also https://www.mirrorpensioners.co.uk/obituary/mervyn-pamment/
and in 2020 SG Reunion talk

Parrott, Mr George (Maths & Science 1957-63): d 25 Jan 1964

Papworth, Andrew (1963 entry) died on 18 March 2022 aged 70 after a long battle with cancer. He was one of several pupils from Haddenham who started at Soham in 1963. In Haddenham there was no youth club and along with others he joined the Young Farmers Club there and became very keen on hockey. He was later a founder member of Ely Hockey Club.
Moving to Australia in 1984, he settled in Canberra working in the Physics Department of the Australian National University for 30 years. Andrew encapsulated much of his philosophy in his book, The art of Experimental Physics, which he worked on up until his death.
He leaves behind a son Harry and a daughter Charlotte, a sister in Australia and a brother in England: via Dudley Walton

Pauly, Mlle Francoise (French Assistante 1970-72): d March 1974 in a plane crash: via Mrs Jill Petrulewicz (Jarrett)

Peachey, Peter G (1954 entry) : d 18 June 2022 aged 79, after a short illness. Peter farmed in Burwell all his life: via Lindsay Hancock SG59

Peacock, Albert Edwin (1930 entry?): d 21 May 2015 aged 96: farmer, educated at Soham Shade School and SGS. Served with the Royal Artillery in WW2 in Burma and India. Played cricket for Soham. For many years Sunday School Superintendent at Soham Berrycroft Methodist Church, where his funeral took place on June 9 2015: via Frank Haslam/Newmarket Journal 18 June 2015.

Peacock, Dennis G (1944 entry) died on May 5th 2008 and was cremated on May 19th 2008: via Stan Harley from Pete Eland 44

Peel, Ken (1944 entry): via Brian Knott

Peters, David John (1962 entry): died 29 June 2013 in South Africa, aged 62: son of John Peters (SG44): as John says "it is not in the order of things for a child to predecease one". Here is some of what he writes "After a very long and brave battle against prostate cancer, our much loved son, David John Peters, died on the 29th June this year in Johannesburg, South Africa. He had lived there for over thirty years. He served his apprenticeship with Sindalls of Cambridge, then it became part of the Bovis Group. He was a member of the Institute of British Builders and being a 'Soham' lad was very work motivated.

When Ted Heath had his confrontation with the miners in the 1970s David emigrated to South Africa where he worked for a large construction firm Murray and Roberts. When he and his mentor since the early days retired they became partners in a very successful construction management company, Proman. He had a great life flying all over the Eastern Cape and Mauritius.

He came home with his lovely lady friend last year and visited all his old haunts and had photographs taken, e.g. what had been the old grammar school. He made light of it, but we knew earlier treatment had not worked and he went back for radiotherapy and later chemotherapy. He insisted he was fine almost to the end and had mooted coming back to the UK to end his days. In the last month he endured pointless operations and said he would never walk, drive, play squash again, so was giving up the ghost. His sister was with him on his final afternoon when he turned to her and said, "When are you going back?" She said "Tomorrow." He said, "I am going home" and quietly passed away free from pain. At his request his children scattered his ashes at his favourite beauty spot known as God's Window in the Drakensburg mountains. His daughter said it was great as above rain forest and the ashes blended in with the mist. He was born on 7th January 1951 and of course went to the Grammar School. His friends from the days of youth in Cambridge knew him as the big gentle one.

Peters, John Clay (1944 entry): Mrs Florence Peters has let us know that her husband John Clay Peters SG44 died on 5th October 2018, peacefully at the Norfolk & Norwich Hospital, aged 85. He lived in Fakenham and was formerly of Ely and Cambridge. 'Beloved husband of Florence. Will be sadly missed by all his family and friends'. Funeral Service at Mintlyn Crematorium, King's Lynn on Tuesday October 23rd 2018. Their son David John Peters SG62 died aged 62 in 2013 in South Africa, also of prostate cancer (see above).

Mrs Peters adds: John did well ... his parents took him away from Soham Grammar School, he did not have a good home life! BUT when he went into the RAF, he realised that one needed education, so passed some exams whilst in the Forces. He was 85yrs old when he died, we had a wonderful marriage which lasted 68yrs, so we were very lucky.

Phillips, John (1961 entry) d2006: via Stephen Gilbert

Phythian, George Rural and General Science 1952-55: d 25 Dec 2008: via Len Norman

Piper, George R (1949 entry): via Brian Knott & Donald Monk

Place, Graham V (1969 entry) d 1 July 2021 at Addenbrokes Hospital, aged 63. His funeral was at West Suffolk Crematorium on 29 July. Should anyone who knew Graham wish to donate, please make a cheque payable to Addenbrookes Charitable Trust (for Addenbrookes Liver Transplant Association), c/o RJ Pepper and Son, Funeral Directors, 27 High St, Soham, CB7 5HA: via Alan Bray SG 60, Graham was the son of his cousin.

Pledger, John (1934 entry): died 31st January 2006 in Southampton, Hampshire: via Richard Pledger

Pledger, Peter (left in 1938): Died in Chichester on 26 April 2002 aged 82: via Richard Pledger

Prior, Cyril (Charlie) (1944 entry): died 9 Feb 2020 aged 86. Latterly lived in Chettisham. Dearly loved husband to Ruby, wonderful dad, Father-in-law, Grandad and Great Grandad, sorely missed by all. Funeral on Wednesday 11th March, 11am, at the Countess Free Church, followed by burial at Ely Cemetery. His brother Gordon was also at SGS: via Brian Knott SG47, who spotted notice of Cyril's death in the Ely Standard.

Pryke, Peter (1952 entry): died 5th August 2011. A Burwell boy living in Florida, in 2006 he provided us with a vivid memoire of his schooldays: via his family.

Pullen, Dr Brian (1948 entry): died March 2007, via Beth Lane, Ian Hobbs and Brian's daughter Sue: Brian had pancreatic cancer for two and a half years.

Purchase, Ken (1952 entry): noted by Chris Bent in the Ely Standard of 9th January 2020. PURCHASE - Kenneth Ellis 'Ken', sadly passed away on 30th November 2019, aged 79 years. Beloved husband to Ruth. A private family funeral has taken place. Ken had been a regular at our Reunions. More information when available.

Pusey, Andrew F, Music 1952-55: died Easter Monday 1987: via internet research

Quinn, Edmund (Ted), Physics 1950-56: died 10th September 2010: via his son Patrick

Read, Leslie (1925 entry?) d 10 Nov 2001: via Chris Bent

Reader, David (1951 entry) d 10 Sep 2013: "It is with sadness and shock that I have to inform you of the death of my cousin David Reader (1951) on the 10th September 2013. David went into Addenbrooke's on Friday 6th September to have a mass removed from inside his chest. He was up and walking around the ward on Tuesday 10th, chatting about his next holiday when he suddenly collapsed and died. He was 72" wrote Dick Turnill.

The funeral was on Friday 27th September at Cambridge Crematorium West Chapel at 3pm. The Editor and John Brown represented us. A lifelong resident of Soham, David had retired from the University of Cambridge Estate Management Department as Deputy Director.
David's lifelong interests were aircraft and wildlife photography, which took him all over the world and into many remote areas. This year he had been on two such disparate trips, one to Florida and one to North Korea. He was a regular attender at our reunions and a helpful information provider and guide.

Reed, Les C (1941 entry) d 11 Jan 2003: via Ed Reed

Rennison, Bill (History 61-67) died 2017: via Stephen Martin SG62

Ridgeon, GWD (1946 entry): It was with deep regret that the School learnt of the very sudden death of GWD Ridgeon, Form IIIB, at Doddington Hospital, on 2nd February, 1947, after a short illness. The funeral was held at Ely, on 6th February, the School being represented by Mr RA Taylor (Staff), RF Watts (Captain of School) and AWJ Reed (IIIB). Wreaths were sent from the School and from IIIB. Our sympathy goes out to his parents in their sad loss. (Soham Grammarian, Spring 1947)

Riley, Mr Donald Henry, English and Music 1966-72: died on February 9th 2013, aged 76 years: announcement in Eastern Daily Press on 15th February 2013, via Colin Hambidge 68

Riley, Mr Thomas Luke Slug French, 1929-67

Ritson, Vaughan (1963 entry), ca 1993: via Dudley Walton

Rouse, Colin (1946 entry), d 17 May 2006: via Mike Rouse

Rouse, Geoffrey David (1956 entry), d 15 September 2016. Born on 21 March 1945 to Reginald and Nellie Rouse, Geoff grew up in Soham and was proud to have attended the Grammar School. Geoff enjoyed his school days, participating in various sports including cross-country running, and amateur dramatics - he played the lead role of Leontes in the 1962 production of The Winter’s Tale. After achieving A levels in English, History and Geography Geoff joined Barclays Bank, beginning a very successful career that spanned 35 years.
He married Sandra Dive in 1969 and they had three children: Karen, Lynn and David.
A life-long Arsenal supporter Geoff also spent many hours at the Horsley & Send Cricket Club in Surrey.
In August 2016, he was awarded the Paul Harris Fellowship for his outstanding contribution as a Rotarian.
He was a sociable character, he very much enjoyed spending time with family and friends including his fellow Grammarians at the annual reunions.
Geoff passed away peacefully surrounded by family after a brave fight against illness. A much-loved man - he is greatly missed by all who were fortunate to know him. (entry by his daughter Karen).

Rouse, Michael (Hon SG): d 19 May 2022: for detail please click link

Royston, John FW (1947) - d 2 April 2004: via Chris Bent

Ruczaj, Martin (1959 entry) - d Dec 1990 - originally via his cousin JP Admaski: Martin's widow Sarah, ex-EHS, adds: Martin passed away in December 1990 just days before his 43rd birthday. A short life - but lived to the full! He was blessed with a cheerful personality and sharp business accumen which led to a successful career in the motor components trade. He started his own business in Cambridge in which he continued to be involved right up until his death. His zest for life, sense of fun and ability to ignore his terminal illness was inspiring and uplifting for those around him. He left a big space in the lives of those who will always love him. Martin's father escaped Poland after the German invasion - he literally swam for his life. At some point he joined the Polish division of the 8th Army - saw action in North Africa - then settled in England after the war. I don't know if he knew Mr Adamski before, but they became brothers in law when they married two sisters from Soham.

Rush, Colin J (1949 entry) - d April 1999 in Solihull: he was Senior Assistant Registrar at Hull University 1967-82. From 1984 until he retired in 1998 he was Regional Director (West Midlands) for the Royal Institute of British Architects: via Grahame Stevens and David Hobbs, who writes: Colin and I were in the same year at SGS. I was best man at his wedding. My wife and I keep in touch with his widow, June. Leon Kitchen wrote to her when Colin died and he sends a card to her each Christmas.

Russell, George Porter (1943 entry) - d 23 Nov 2020: he died in Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, on Monday 23rd November 2020, aged 88 after a stroke. He was survived by his wife Ailsa, his daughters, nine grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. His funeral was at Haddenham Baptist Church on Friday December 4th 2020 followed by interment in the parish cemetery. George was born in Haddenham on 26th February 1932, the youngest of seven children. He attended SGS from 1943 to 47. He did his National Service in the RAF, where he trained as an electrician. After the RAF he worked for Setchells in Ely and then as an electrical contractor in Haddenham. He married Mary Handley in 1954 and they had three daughters. He was a member of the Royal Observer Corps for many years and was very involved in village events and in Haddenham Baptist Chapel. He can be seen in the photos of SG Reunions in 2005 and 2007: via the Ely Standard and Anne Blake, one of his daughters.

Salmon, Albert Thomas (about 1927 entry) d Jan 1965: Tom, of Haddenham, died aged 49 originally worked for Dent's in London. In the war years he worked in an aircraft factory. He then decided to make teaching his career and trained at Cheltenham. He taught for a year at the Hereward School, March, and then at Cromwell School Chatteris until his death. He specialised in preparing pupils for the Horticultural Preceptors examinations and appeared with some of his pupils in a programme on Anglia TV on this subject. He also taught mathematics to an adult evening class. He took a keen interest in sport and had played in goal for Haddenham Rovers. Every season he played for the local cricket team, holding several offices. He was on the SGS PTA and secretary of the Baptist Church Sunday School. (extracts from his obituary, Ely Standard, 21 Jan 1965).

Sangster, Chris (1963 entry) d Apr 2020: Martin Kyte SG'69' writes: Sadly I have to tell you of the sudden passing of Chris Sangster SG63 of Burwell after a major stroke. Chris was at the last reunion and can be seen in the photo report. I knew Chris from way back although in recent years we became much closer though our shared interest in model engineering and clockmaking. Along with another of our friends we met every Monday night to talk of workshops and eat cheese. Soham Grammar School often cropped up in conversation.

Chris was for a long time a member of the Cambridge and District Model Engineering Society, probably some 40 years. Latterly he joined the Society of Model and Experimental Engineers. Chris’ interests were mainly in clockmaking in which he achieved an extremely high standard and completed many clocks. He was currently working on a Vienna Regulator. He had also constructed a miniature traction engine and a large scale Great Western Tank locomotive. With his untimely death many of these projects remain incomplete.

Another interest was cars. He learned to drive at Soham Grammar, back in the days when the school taught the older boys to do so. In his youth he raced at grass track events and as money became available moved through a series of ‘interesting’ vehicles all of which he worked on. At one time he owned a Mercedes Pagoda convertible, finally selling that and driving an SLK.

Chris initially worked at what was then Tillotsons Box factory in Burwell where he was useful in the the machine shop but also in the drawing office. Draughting was probably Christopher's forte at SGS which paid off handsomely when, after a spell with Cambridge County Council designing Street Lighting, he landed a job with CU Phosco a manufacturer and installer of large scale lighting products for motorways, tunnels and airports. In fact much of the air-side lighting at Heathrow was designed by Chris along with port facilities and things like Coventry ring road etc. Chris had only recently retired from Phosco although he continued to do some contract work for them.

Chris married again after an earlier breakup, meeting his new wife Yvonne at a Rosie Hospital open day event where she worked - he was helping to run a miniature railway provided by the model club. As a result Chris acquired the family he thought he might never have, which eventually included two grandchildren who clearly adored him.

Chris is sadly missed by a loving wife and close family and friends, of which I count myself privileged to be one.

Saul, John W (1950 entry) Sadly passed away peacefully in hospital on Thursday 30th June 2022, after a short battle, aged 83. He leaves wife Pat, son Greg, daughters the late Mary and youngest daughter Alyson, daughter in law Kim and sons in law Martin and Tony, 7 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. John and Pat moved to Southbourne in 2014 after living most of their life in Littleport and Ely, to be with their youngest daughter and her family near the coast. He loved nothing better than spending time with family and friends. He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him. RIP husband, dad, grandad, great grandad, father-in-law, uncle and friend. Funeral arrangements will be provided in due course. Published Ely Standard: Jul 7, 2022, noted by Stan Harley SG53.

Saunders, Mr SR Sid 1947-66 - published obituary or funeral details sought: it is believed that he died in 1992

Seal, Les (1932 entry?) d Nov 2009: Les made contact via his son Paul in 2005. Les worked on the Railway for most of his career and finally in the Magistrates Courts at Great Yarmouth. The Seals left Soham in 1954. His father-in-law, Harry Oliver, was the Soham station master at the time of the explosion and the Paul believes his mother is the last survivor of those who were directly involved.

Searle, Michael Cynth (1959 entry) died after a long illness on 7 Dec 2007, funeral 20 Dec Cambridge Crematorium: in due course a memorial page will be provided: via Paul Dunham and Geoff Griggs and confirmed by Colin Searle 62.

Sharpe, Bob: via Brian Knott

Sherrington, Norman, Latin 1960-68: died on June 13th 2012 aged 83, via a former pupil at his previous school, AJH Warburton

Simper, Eric (1951 entry): via Beth Lane: Eric died suddenly but peacefully on 19th December 2019 aged 79. Much loved husband of Joan, dad to Karl & Neil and father-in-law to Tonia & Mandy. Devoted grandad to seven children. A celebration of Eric's life to take place at St Mary's Church, Ely on Wednesday 22nd January at noon, and afterwards at Ely Football Club, Downhams Road,Ely CB6 2SH. Family flowers only or donations if desired for the Papworth Charitable Trust or Addenbrookes Charitable Trust may be left at the service or sent to C E Fuller & Co 23 Hall Street, Soham CB7 5BN 01353 720439

He had been a frequent attender at our reunions but had been unwell for a while. Our condolences go to his family. He was a Littleport boy who spent much of his life in the area. He was a notable footballer at school and with local teams - see https://www.elycityfc.co.uk/news/eric-simper-2497597.html

Simpson, Richard (1966 entry). Richard lived on Anglesey with his wife, son and two daughters. He had been a reporter on a motorcycle magazine, on various newspapers and had run his own business as well as project managing large projects for blue chip companies. He died of a heart attack on October 10th 2008, aged 53: via his cousin Peter Hobbs

Sindall, Denis (1940 entry). Denis died on the 2nd of January 2020. He would have been 91 in early March. He had developed a rare cancer and Alzheimer’s but until the last weeks could remember life in Ely and Soham especially during the war years. In 2008 we reported that the Sindalls had recently moved to Northumberland when the Revd Canon Christine Sindall retired as Rector of the Cheveley Group of Parishes near Newmarket. Denis had been Health and Safety Officer for East Cambridgeshire District Council until his retirement in 1996.
His funeral was on Monday 20th Jan at 1 pm at St Peter and St Paul’s Church Longhoughton, Alnwick, NE66 3JB: via Christine Sindall: more to be added.

Slack, William Alfred - (1881 entry) from the Summer 1966 Soham Grammarian
Aged 92 years, of Soham, Mr Slack was one of the first pupils to attend Soham Grammar School.

Smith, Anthony CM (1957 entry) d 1963: from the Spring 1964 Soham Grammarian

Smith, Colin (1941 entry): d May 2007: he left in 1946 after School Certificate and had a career in banking starting with the TSB, moving to Lincolnshire. Latterly he lived in Spalding: via John Leaney

Smith, Dr Edward George Ryland (1956 entry): Ted died on 17th December 2013. He was born in Soham in 1945, but his family later moved to Cambridge. At SGS he specialized in maths and physics, and in 1964 he won a scholarship to read Mechanical Sciences at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, graduating in Electrical Sciences in 1967. His PhD research on high voltage current was delayed by illness, but the degree was awarded in 1976. He worked in avionics for GEC/Marconi and its successor, BAE Systems, from 1975 and was in the team developing head-up instrumentation for the F-16 fighter aircraft. As a consequence he was seconded to America from 1988-1994 where he lived in Fort Worth, Texas with his wife Sue. On his return he worked in Kent on similar projects until his premature retirement in 2005. For the rest of his life he fought a brave battle against cancer (via his sister Helen Smith).

Smith, Peter J (1959 entry). Peter J Smith SG59 passed away peacefully at home with his wife and daughter by his side on 2nd February 2023, just two weeks before his 75th birthday, after a brave battle with Prostate Cancer.
After SGS Peter worked in the laboratories at Spillers Milling where 3 or 4 other SGS have worked including me. From there he went to Reading University to study Food Technology before a career with Cadburys.

Around 10 years ago we met up again for an Ely Old Boys Reunion, five of whom were SGS. We then met up once or twice a year.
Apart from his family his other loves were music and running (he was a member of his local club in Hereford). Peter was a true gentleman and will be sadly missed by all that knew him: via Kevin Brown SG63

Smith, Richard J (1951 entry), d 15 Oct 2002: via his brother Charles Smith

Smith, Joe (started 1940): via Donald Monk

Smith, Trevor William (1961 entry): Passed away 30th August 2020. Notice in Ely Standard 10 September 2020: "We are deeply saddened with heavy hearts to announce the death of the Rock of the family, who passed away suddenly but was surrounded by his family. Trevor was a compassionate, wholehearted and diligent true gentleman. A loving husband to his wife Blessing for 30-years and devoted father to daughter Christy, and sons Michael and Christopher. Brother to Jackie Hodson, father-in-law to Alex, and doting “Grumpa" to his grandson Finley. He will be greatly missed by family and all who knew him."

Michael Smith writes: We believe Dad lived at Shade Villa in Soham up until mid-1961. In late 1961 (when aged 12), he moved to Ely Road in Littleport and from there travelled SGS until 1966.

In 1967 he began working for Marconi (originally TCL then GPT before becoming Marconi) in Telecommunications where he was known for his lightning pace on the job and attention to detail. Working his way up he ended up in about 1976 moving to Nigeria where he worked for almost 20 years and where he met my mother. He managed high profile projects, many at senior/government level, and would return every so often to visit family in Littleport. By the mid 1990s he had 3 children and settled in Littleport. The Smith family moved to Ely in 2001. He continued with Marconi up until about 2005/06, taking early retirement when a Regional Operations Manager in the Midlands managing a large team on a day to day basis.

He spent his time supporting his family and occasionally enjoying the benefits of an early retirement. He began supporting a local transport company by driving elderly or disabled people around, which he enjoyed as he was helping and giving back, until 2013.

His pastimes activities in mid/later life included: chess (he was seriously, seriously good); being an Athletics track and field official, gardening, woodwork (he hand made many large benches for the family garden), travelling (he would spend 6+ weeks each year in Monte Gordo, Portugal, in his 60s. He would travel regularly with the family around America and Europe; he was a Leeds United fan; he was a car fan, at one point he had a red Jaguar XJS and a Caviar Jaguar XJ6 at the same time in the UK, whilst he was in Nigeria!

He was always a popular guy in all settings and was known as being the centre of all information and had a cheeky sense of humour that would leave everyone smiling. Plus we had a few parties at home each year (for New Year, Summer BBQ or Christmas) and he loved to socialise all the time. He didn’t much like the organising part of it though!

His funeral on September 24th at noon in St.Mary's, Ely had a streaming link so people from around the world could tune in to view it.

Dad - Trevor - was a lovely man. Always kept his family's interests at heart whilst working very hard. His children, with his support over the years, have managed to: win hundreds of Athletics medals and train with UK Sport coaches (if it wasn’t for an injury, my older sister could have made the Team GB Olympic team), graduate with University degrees, enter finance, technology and sciences fields of work for top companies, start and run successful businesses and live happily whilst travelling the world. I can’t put into words the impact he had.

Smith, William Bill John (1940 entry): Christine Smith writes: My husband died peacefully at home after a long illness on 6th August 2019. One of the readings at his memorial service was Joshua Chap. 1 verses 1-9 which was read at the service at the end of every term while he was at SGS - he took it to heart and it was his mantra for life. We were married on 21st October 1954 and have had a very good 64+ happy years - farming all his life. On the family farm till 1969, Manager on 1500 acres at Guestwick, 10 years at Edingthorpe and 16 years at Barford, before finally retiring to Reepham in December 2007.

Sneesby, Norman (1936 entry), died whilst on a cruise 23 March 2007: via Wilkes Walton

South, Norman D (1946 entry) died aged 85 on 25 December 2020: based on report in the Ely Standard 5 January 2021 via Chris Bent SG53.

Norman South was described as “an inspiration to all who knew him” and a well-known figure in the local sporting scene. Norman South, born and raised in Littleport, passed away on Christmas Day last year at The Paddocks Care Home in Swaffham after a battle with vascular dementia.

A keen sportsman at heart, Norman played key parts in different sports, including cricket, football and badminton. The Littleport resident played and managed Waterbeach, Ely City Reserves and Littleport Town Football Club, as well as featuring in the FA Cup as a player in 1956.

Norman began his association with Littleport Town Cricket Club in 1947 and, as well as becoming president of long-standing local cricket competition, the Kirkland Cup, he took charge of Littleport’s youth team. He also coached Ely City Crusaders under 15s, became the first player to score 100 runs at the club’s Highfield ground and notched 10 wickets while on tour with Littleport against the Cheltenham Civil Service in 1958. It was not just outdoors that Norman impressed, but indoors too, where he became champion for Cambridgeshire in table tennis and won several awards in badminton.

In later life, the ex-Robins player became a fundraiser and raised over £30,000 for the Ely branch of the MS Society through organising carpet bowls tournaments. However, perhaps one of his most notable feats for Norman was becoming an Olympic torch bearer ahead of the London 2012 Games. Family, friends and supporters travelled to King’s Lynn to see Norman walk the quarter-mile through the town. At the time, Norman said: “It was a very good day, there were lots of people there from Littleport to watch and it went like a dream.” As well as this, Norman won two Unsung Hero Awards including in 2008 at the Ely Standard Sports Awards for his dedication to local sport, in a bid to inspire others to contribute to their community.

Norman’s family said: “He was full of humour, right to the end, and will be greatly missed.” Married to the late Hilary, he leaves behind three children, seven grandchildren and three siblings. Friends are invited to line the route from St George’s Church, Littleport to the Littleport Cemetery [subject to restrictions in place] on Tuesday, January 19 at 2.45pm, with the funeral starting at 2pm.
Dementia UK to make a donation - Ely Standard to see the original report with photos.

Southgate, Chris (1955 entry) died at his home in Bury St Edmunds on April 13th 2009. At school Chris was a keen cross country runner and chess player. He became a partner in an accountancy practice, and enjoyed bowls (where he reached National finals), bird-watching, Scouting and angling. His life-long sense of fun will be missed, and this was reflected in the huge turnout at his funeral (people were standing outside): via Barry Lowe

Southgate, Ronnie (Ronald James) (1945 entry): At the age of 80 in Newmarket on 28th January 2015. There was a memorial service on Saturday 14th February at 2.30pm at St Martin's Church, Exning.Via Lees Donaldson who worked under Ronnie at Spillers as did some other SGs.

Spinks, Alfred CBE FRS PhD (1932 entry) Director of Research and Development ICI "whose intellect bordered on the intimidating" d1982

Staines, Barry W (started 1951): d2003: via Neil Holmes & Chris Bent

Stearman, Peter E (1965 entry): Peter suffered an embolism and died peacefully in The Royal Papworth Hospital on 2nd November, just five days after taking over as Captain at Ely City Golf Club. He was a Scout at SGS and a member of the Football U15 Fordham Cup winning team in 1969. Loving Husband to Rosemary, devoted Dad to Iain and Vicki, much loved Grandad to Annie-May, Ella and Carter. Cremation to take place at Fenland Crematorium, March on Thursday 2nd December 2021 at 10:30am followed by a thanksgiving service at St Leonard's Church, Little Downham at 12:00pm. Preferably no black worn please: via Colin Hills SG68, Chris Bent SG53.

Stanley, Edward A (1949 entry): d2011: via Brian Thorby

Stevens, Grahame (1949 entry): Grahame Stevens 49 died on 12th Feb 2010 in his 72nd year. He had worked for a steel company in Sheffield - Davy United, Hull City Council and then Leeds Permanent Building Society, which was taken over by the Halifax. Grahame leaves a widow, Jean and a son and daughter. They retired to Settle in Yorkshire: via Donald Monk.

Stimson, Gary (1962 entry) d 10 October 2018 after a short battle with cancer and buried at St Michael & All Angels, Copford Green, Colchester. He was Soham born and bred and is survived by his wife Pauline and three children. Via Trevor Smith who recalls "My recollections mostly go back to our Soham days when three of us formed a rock group together - Gary, myself, and Adrian Estall. We kept the group going for about six years playing gigs mostly in and around Cambridge. We usually did the gig at the Old Comrades Club on Soham Carnival day. In those days we were in regular contact both in the group and socially. We also won a gig playing in Switzerland for a couple of weeks; albeit a residence! Wonderful memories. The first night we played, Gary had to be 'revived' after his afternoon dip in the lake in town: glacier-cold water!

After the group finally split up, our regular contact waned. Gary had a job selling seeds for Unwins, but he decided to return to his studies and ended up as what was a, then relatively unknown, mature student at university. From there he went into teaching and this career saw him retire as headmaster. That was when we caught up again as email buddies. Although we've not been close geographically for many years I still felt close to him, and will miss him. In our minds we always thought that we'd play together again one day.

Stimpson, Leslie R (1936 entry): d2003: via Chris Bent: Wilkes Walton adds - he is on the 1937 photo so he must have been in my entry year (36) though I can't place him: he is also in the Hereward House athletes photo.
Stokes, Reginald James (1953 entry): The Ely Standard of 9 September 2021 reported that Reg "of Burwell, formerly of Soham and Cambridge passed away peacefully at Addenbrookes Hospital on Sunday 22nd August 2021 aged 79 years. Adored husband of Liz, wonderful dad of Matt, Nathan and the late Aaron, who will be sadly missed by all his family and many friends. Funeral Service at St. James Church, Stretham on Tuesday 21st September at 1.00 pm, followed by private burial at Stretham cemetery. Red items of clothing to be worn. Family flowers only please, but if desired, donations made payable to Addenbrookes Charitable Trust (for the Lewin Stroke and Rehabilitation Unit) may be left at the service or sent c/o R. J. Pepper & Son Family Funeral Directors 27, High Street, Soham, Ely, Cambs, CB7 5HA Tel: 01353 720222." It is believed that he was fostered and lived in Brook Street, Soham, for a time: via Stan Harley SG53 and others.

Stokes, Reginald James (1953 entry): (Reg) of Burwell, formerly of Soham and Cambridge passed away peacefully at Addenbrookes Hospital on Sunday 22nd August 2021 aged 79 years. Adored husband of Liz, wonderful dad of Matt, Nathan and the late Aaron, who will be sadly missed by all his family and many friends. Funeral Service at St. James Church, Stretham on Tuesday 21st September at 1.00 pm, followed by private burial at Stretham cemetery. Red items of clothing to be worn. Family flowers only please, but if desired, donations made payable to Addenbrookes Charitable Trust (for the Lewin Stroke and Rehabilitation Unit) may be left at the service or sent c/o R. J. Pepper & Son Family Funeral Directors 27, High Street, Soham, Ely, Cambs, CB7 5HA Tel: 01353 720222. Ely Standard 19 Jul 2022

Stonebridge, Peter (1950 entry): d 2020: via Simon Thornhill: further information awaited.

Strawson, Chris (1944 entry): d 2020: Christopher Robert (Chris) Squadron Leader (Retired). Died suddenly on Wednesday 15th January, aged 86. Much loved husband to Vivienne, wonderful father to Penny and John, and adored Grandad to Zoe, Eleanor and William. Funeral Thursday 6th February, 1.30pm Isle of Wight Crematorium. Family flowers only please; donations, if desired, to the Mountbatten Hospice IOW 'Our hearts are full of gratitude as well as grief' (published in the Isle of Wight County Press on 24th January 2020). Charles Peacock SG44 had spotted Chris Strawson's obituary notice in the Daily Telegraph and alerted the editor in August.

Further research found this report on the internet from Group Captain Peter Bingham of 10 Squadron Association: "I am not sure if anyone else has passed this on but Chris Strawson, who many will remember as 10 Sqn Nav leader and subsequently as an instructor and STANEVAL Nav, sadly died on 15th January 2020. He retired to the Isle of Wight and was a member of the Royal Flying Corps & Royal Naval Air Service Association here on the Island (the last branch in existence) and it was through this organisation that I saw him regularly until he became ill in late 2019. His funeral took place on 6th February and a number of RFC/RNAS Assn members were there along with some of old friends from his days in the Service."

Chris Strawson was an Ely boy. He's in the group photos taken by Alban Nash in 1948 including one with the cricket roller.
The Autumn 1950 Soham Grammarian recorded his achievements:
CR Strawson: School Certificate 1949: 1st XI Football 1949-50; Colours 1949-50; 1st XI Cricket 1950

Stubbins, Geoff (1962 entry): Merseyside, died May 2017: via Mrs Barbara Stubbins.

Sulman, Roger (1952 entry): died on 18th August 2017 in Addenbrookes Hospital of a massive heart attack whilst undergoing treatment. He was 76 years old. Funeral Service at Coveney Methodist Church on Wednesday September 6th 2017 followed by interment. Dearly loved husband of Judy, much loved dad of Andrew. He had made contact in 2014 and came to that year's reunion. He was a cricketer at SGS. It is believed that he joined Lloyds Bank from SGS and was for a time Treasurer of Cambridge United football club: via Stan Harley.

Summerscales, Harry (1940): d 20 Jan 10, funeral 3 Feb, St Andrew's, Soham, 3.15pm: via Fred Eden & Reg Brown

Symmons, Jack (History 44-48) d2009; via Mrs Nancy Symmons

Tabraham MCollH, FRSA, Mr Edmund H Woodwork, Metalwork, Technical Drawing 1948-72: Deputy Head 1967: d2008, via his daughter Jenny

Tatham, Ian P Spud (1959 entry): died in May 2006 after a long illness. He had worked in the NHS: via his daughter Gemma

Taylor OBE Hon DEng FRAeS FRHistS AFIAA, Dr John WR (early 1930s) d 1999: via Mrs Doris Taylor

Taylor, Mr Ronald Arthur (RAT/Peter) History, Geography, Games: 1946, 1948-72: Head of Lower School 1967-72

Thomas, Mr RL Taffy Geography, 1928-61 - published obituary or funeral details sought

Thornhill, Colin Wifrid (1940 entry): died on Tuesday 14 November, 2017, aged 88. Late of Mitchell Circuit, Port Macquarie, New South Wales. Loved husband of Sylvia (deceased). Much loved partner of Barbara. Loved Father of Stephen, Stewart (deceased) and Michael. Loving Grandad to granddaughter Tracy and great grandson Aleski. Service of Thanksgiving celebrating his life was held on Monday 20th November, 2017 at Innes Gardens Memorial Park Crematorium, Port Macquarie commencing at 11am. He was a member of Port Macquarie Golf Club: via family.

Thurston, Ray (1939 entry): Passed away peacefully on Wednesday 17th February 2021, aged 92. Beloved Husband to Audrey Lanham. In line with restrictions, a private funeral service took place at St Agnes Church, Newmarket, followed by cremation. Donations may be made payable to The Injured Jockeys Fund. Announced in the Newmarket Journal on Mar. 4, 2021
Ray gained a scholarship to SGS from St Andrew's School, Burwell, in 1939. He got his School Certificate in 1944. He played in the 2nd XI Cricket team and was a member of the School's Air Training Corps. Peter Nicholls, who was in the same year recalls Ray as a nice boy from a large family. Ray last attended a reunion in 2003.

Tomalin, Arnold MBE (1939 entry): A Barford resident of more than 50 years, Arnold died on Wednesday 2nd August aged 89 in Woodside Nursing Home, Norwich. He had been unwell for some time. Sadly missed by his wife Ann and his two sons. His funeral will be at mid-day on 23rd August at the Earlham Road Crematorium, 193 Earlham Road, Norwich NR2 3RG.   Family flowers only please, but donations, if desired, for Barford Church, cheques made payable direct to Barford Parish Church Assuring its Future, may be sent c/o R J Bartram and Son, 42 Fairland Street, Wymondham, NR18 0JS. Arnold was for many years prominent in the Old Boys Association, chairing the Annual Dinners. A Service of Thanksgiving for his life is planned for October. Via Mrs Ann Tomalin and the Eastern Daily Press August 5, 2017.

Touch DFC, Donald (late 1920s entry?): We very much regret to hear that Flight Lieutenant Donald Touch DFC was fatally injured in an air crash at Moorgreen on March 13th. He began flying as an amateur before the war and has had a very distinguished career in the RAF. (Soham Grammarian, Summer 1948) - see also post WWII

Thulborn, Geoffrey (1961 entry), "in car accident 20th June 1976". His grave in Haddenham carries the inscription "he lived and laughed and found it good": via Dudley Walton

Titmarsh, Cyril Joe (1941 entry) Cyril died in December 2007. He served for many years in the Army: via his son Jeffrey

Tully, Brian (1952 entry): died 1997: via his son Martin

Tunnell, Nigel (1967 entry) died Dec 2 2010 after a long illness: Neil Munro writes "My dear friend Nigel leaves behind his wife Sarah and two daughters. Nigel and I were in the same class throughout Infant and Junior School. We arrived at Soham in September 1967 and although we were then split between A (me) and Alpha (Nigel) we remained great friends throughout our time at Grammar School, Sixth Form at Ely and throughout our adult life."

Tweed, Peter L (1950 entry): d 22 Mar 2010 in Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, after a series of strokes: via Charles Smith

Unwin, Douglas J (obituary from the Ely Standard on the Ely FC website) d1999: as Douglas John Onion 1924-25 entry

Unwin, HJ (Jack): entry year ?: died 2002: via his daughter Maureen

Vail, Ken (1950 entry), of Risby, died aged 74 in January 2013: a leading graphic designer and a writer on jazz: via Marian Vail

Vince, AJ "Bill" (1932 entry): via Brian Lane, died age 83 on 2 Jan 2004 in Ely

Waddelow, Maurice (?1931 entry?) d March 1975: from Haddenham: served in the Royal Artillery in WW2. He worked with his brothers Joe and Donald on their family farm in Haddenham. He never married: via Darren Tebbitt

Wade, John (1957 entry) d Feb 9th 2022 aged 75. Thank you to those who reported to me the death of John Wade SG57. His sister Ann (ex-EHS) writes: John was a weekly boarder whilst at Soham Grammar School and his family home was at Little Downham. A memorial service was held in Ely Cathedral April 19th 2022. John was an Optician, working in the family business with practices in Ely, Soham and Littleport until 2019 and is survived by his wife Jackie, three sons and 4 grandchildren.

Waller, Rex (Latin 1949-60): d 23 Nov 2008; via Richard Waller

Walker, Andrew (1961 entry): d October 2010: via his brother Richard

Walker, Frank (at SGS during the late twenties and early thirties): died in 1987 aged 73. Father of SGs Richard Walker 64 and the late Andrew Walker 61: Richard writes: I found a picture of my father in the 1929 school photograph!

Walton, Wilkes (1936 entry) d 30 Dec 2022 aged 96: via Gemma Bithell: The death of Wilkes Walton SG36 occurred on 30th December 2022, at the age of 96. His funera took place on 11 January 2023 at Breakspear Crematorium, Ruislip, Middlesex. Until prevented by age Wilkes was a regular attender (wearing a splendid bow tie in SG colours) at our reunions and can be seen in many reunion reports, usually with his great friend the late Roy Palmer SG37. Wilkes co-presented the talk on SGS at War at our 2010 reunion.

Walton, Wilkes (1936 entry) d 30 Dec 2022 aged 96: Also known as Wally - Wilkes sadly passed away at the end of 2022 after a short illness. He was widowed some years ago, he leaves behind a much loved daughter, 2 grandchildren and 4 great grand children with whom he spent much of his time. Wilkes attended many Soham Grammar Reunions and enjoyed catching up with old friends and reminiscing about his time at Soham. Wilkes went onto study at the University of Cambridge and also served in the RAF. Wilkes was a keen runner and cricketer and later in life took up bowls. He was also a qualified cricket Umpire and enjoyed umpiring his grandson’s matches when he was young. Wilkes was also a member of the Retired Railway Officers Society where he was a respected member.

Washtell, Johnathan AF Ginger (1959 entry) - from the Summer 1968 Soham Grammarian
Found in the River Cam at Cambridge, August 22nd 1967

Watts, Geoffrey D (Biology 1955-61) d Feb 27 2005, via Peter Askem

Watts, Richard F (1939 entry) - a Secretary of the OBs, d 2 Sep 2002: via Wilkes Walton

Webb, FK AM Brit IRE Science & Maths 1948-56: via his son Peter: Ken Webb died in 1991 aged 77.

Webb, Norman (1940 entry) - d 2002: he was born in Stretham and attended SGS during the mid 40s. After leaving SGS he was conscripted into the Navy. On leaving that he joined the Civil Service in London, living at Dartford in Kent: via Richard Crofts.

Wells, George (1938 entry) - d July 2011 aged 82: an Isleham boy. An article in the Press Gazette (see link below) describes him "For generations of readers in Fenland, George Wells, who has died suddenly at his Wisbech home aged 82, was the face of Archant Norfolk’s Eastern Daily Press. When he retired after 28 years as district reporter in May 1991, Fenland District Council made a rare, if not unique award of an individual civic shield to an exemplary journalist of class and quality.": via Google and Ivan Whymer.
http://www.pressgazette.co.uk/story.asp?sectioncode=1&storycode=47528&c=1

Wells, Gerald Arthur Tinker (1944 entry): died June 2004 aged 71, Soham: He was the father of Kevin and grandfather of Holly Wells: via David Reader

Whetstone, Michael JG (1943 entry?): John Wilson SG46 writes on 11 Jan 14: It is with regret that I can announce the death of Michael JG Whetstone. He was our form prefect when I was in the fourth form. He was a regular member of the football and cricket teams and later was a boarder with Mr E Armitage the head master. He can be seen in the school photo for 1946 on page 6/15 [and other photos if you search on his name]. I lost touch with him after leaving SGS in 1952. Imagine my surprise in later years when he was appointed Head Master at Ryhall primary school, the village where I have lived since 1961. We resumed our friendship obviously and he stayed in the village after retiring until 2013. He then moved to the Wirral to be near his family. Sadly he only had a few months there before he died.

White MBE, Terence 'Terry' William (1937 entry): d 2015 aged 91. Terry was a gifted musician and towards the end of his primary schooling he was sent as a scholar/chorister to St John's Choir School, Cambridge. His father became concerned that the education provided was too heavily concentrated on music at the expense of other subjects which Terry would need if he didn’t pursue a musical career. In 1937, at the age of 13, Terry came to Soham Grammar School, travelling daily by train from Cambridge.

He flourished in both practical and academic subjects (including music of course) and showed a considerable talent for art, athletics and for rugby football (he later played rugby for a Royal Navy side and Wolverhampton RUFC). From about 1939 or 1940 there is a photo of him with the six trophies he won - open events for the 220 yds, 440 yds, 880 yds, mile, cross country, and the Victor Ludorum. He also represented SGS in the Five Counties Athletics Championship with similar success.

He was given to schoolboy pranks too, such as letting off a firework, probably a rocket or Roman Candle, which penetrated a window in the Headmasters study. It was not malicious but nonetheless it resulted in the seat of his trousers being severely and painfully ‘dusted’.

After passing the School Certificate Examination in 1941 Terry temporarily joined the National Westminster Bank as a junior clerk until he could, on becoming 18, volunteer for service in the Royal Navy Volunteer Reserve.

On passing out from HMS Royal Arthur as an Ordinary Seaman, Terry was posted to the corvette HMS Balsam for convoy duties in the Mediterranean. He was recommended by his captain for a commission. Eventually Lieutenant T. W. White RNVR was involved in preparing the Royal Navy’s support for D-Day.

Paris was a strange place for a sailor to be on V-E Day but that is where Terry was. He recounted that the champagne flowed freely but water was in short supply – so, he said, they cleaned their teeth using champagne! He was posted to Kiel as part of a Royal Navy force impounding surrendered ships of the German Navy and controlling ship traffic in the Kiel Canal.

In the months before demobilisation there were riotous parties and Terry was much in demand as a pianist. Such was his ‘gift’ that he didn’t need sheet music. Terry could ‘busk’ to a standard that few would believe, so much so that word got to the British Forces Network (BFN) broadcasting from Hamburg. He had a weekly 30 minute ‘slot’ with them simply to play the piano, without rehearsal. Of course, the family listened to it in England. He said he did it to get out of doing other things.

He became interested in photography having appropriated some very expensive German equipment. Probably his most enjoyment was sailing in the Baltic in a number of very desirable Kriegsmarine yachts appropriated as spoils of war (‘Windfalls’). These were sailed back to the UK where several were distributed among the armed services as sail training yachts (HMTY).

With a national shortage of school teachers, Terry decided on a career in teaching. He attended the newly formed Alsager College of Education in Cheshire for a crash course in teacher training, with an emphasis on music. After Alsager, and with a Dip.Ed he took a temporary teaching post in Wolverhampton where he met and married his wife Betty, also a school teacher. It was not long before both Terry and Betty left Wolverhampton having both secured permanent teaching posts at schools in Northampton, where they raised their family.

In 1961 he helped to create a new organisation to promote and oversee the sport of sailing in British schools, The National Schools Sailing Association (NSSA). Terry was elected to be Treasurer, a post he held for twenty-five years and was later a Vice-President. In 1969 the NSSA was one of the organisations which founded the International Sailing School Association. Terry was invited to join the RYA Safety Committee and was a strong influence in seeing the introduction of many safety measures which are still in force and being progressively improved. He was an honorary Life Member of the RYA and the Royal Corinthian Yacht Clubs in both Cowes and Burnham-on-Crouch, and of four other Royal Yacht Clubs.

In 1977, the year of the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, Terry was awarded the Jubilee Medal for his services to introduce and promote sailing for young people. The following year Terry and his family visited Buckingham Palace where he was invested with the M.B.E. by the Queen for these services.

Terry retired from teaching in 1987 as Headmaster of Parklands Middle School in Northampton. Shortly after retiring Terry relinquished his duties as Vice-President of the NSSA, but maintained his interest and contact for many years.

Terry and Betty returned to his native East Anglia to live at Ringsfield just outside Beccles, Suffolk. They lived there happily for the next 25 years until advancing years and failing health forced them to spend their final years in a comfortable care home near their daughter and her family, at Emsworth, Hampshire. via his brother Bernard White

Whiting, Graham Paul (1970 entry): from the Banbury Guardian on 28th November 2013 - died at home on 22nd November 2013. Dearly loved Husband of Sharon and Dad of Lauren. A Service to celebrate Graham's life was held on Friday 6th December at Banbury Crematorium. Graham was at Soham Grammar School, 1970-75, then Cambridgeshire College of Arts and Technology: Maths, Statistics and Computer Science, 1975-77. He worked in a variety of positions in the computer industry, initially in computer operations for a large local authority, then moved into a technical support role. During this time the IBM Personal Computer was launched and he was one of the first people in the UK to start integrating the Personal Computer into business applications.

Moving from the IT industry into training and consultancy he served his time as a journeyman trainer delivering a variety of management training programmes in many different industry sectors. He went on to be Consultant Co-ordinator, running the delivery part of a training and consultancy company for 3 years before deciding he wanted to work for himself. He developing and delivered Project Management training solutions and methodologies for several large organisations in the private and public sectors. He was a Trustee of the Banbury Schools Trust, and Chair of the trust developing secondary education at Banbury School. He was Director of The Aspirations Academy Trust. He loved motor sport, and was UK Instructor, Vision Motorsport and Rally Service Crew, Cornermotorsport.

Wilkes, Mrs BM (Latin 1968-72)
WILKES (Lady) Nina of Cambridge died peacefully on Sunday 24th August aged 93. Beloved wife of Sir Maurice and Mother of Anthony, Helen and Margaret. Funeral service on Wednesday 3rd September 2pm at St Augustine's Church, Richmond Road, Cambridge. Family flowers only. Donations to Christian Aid.
The Times 30 Aug 2008

Willett, George (1957 entry): an All England shot-putter: died about 1985 of a massive heart attack: via Terry Day

Woodroff, Keith (1953 entry): of Fenstanton. Passed away peacefully after a short illness, surrounded by his family, on Friday May 5th 2017 aged 74 years. A much loved Husband, Father, Grandfather and Brother, who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. A celebration of Keith's life, took place at Cambridge City Crematorium, West Chapel on Monday May 22nd at 11.45 am. Donations if desired made payable to NWA, NHS, FT, Hinchingbrooke Charity, for the Critical Care Unit, may be sent c/o Easton and Cook Independent Funeral Service, 2b Harding Way, St. Ives. PE27 3WR: via Michael Reeve

Woodroffe, Barry (1950 entry): d 23 Feb 2013 after a short illness. A son of Horace Woodroffe and Florence Lilian Mary Woodroffe (née Cross). Lived in Coveney, Ely (with his grandparents Frank Woodroffe and Phoebe Woodroffe (née Powell)) as he spoke about getting a train to SGS. Presented with an award in 1953 for General Neatness. Interested in cricket and the countryside/farming. Moved to Norfolk at the age of 15 to work as an agricultural labourer in Garvestone, where he met his wife. Married in April 1966 and they lived together until his death in 2013 at Guntons Farm: via his grandson Daniel Woodroffe.

Wood, Gareth Chemistry 1964-72: Gareth died at home on 7th April 2014 at the age of 75 after a short illness, though he had been unwell for some time. His family were with him. His funeral was at St Peter's Church, Fordham at 10.30am on 17th April, Maundy Thursday. The attendance reflected the contribution he made to education and local life: via Ed Reed.

Wright, Edward Gordon (?1936 entry) d 11 May 2008 aged 83: via his son David

Wright, Ralph (entry tba): killed in an aeroplane crash on Sunday February 5th 1939: prominent member of the OB Dramatic Society: Soham Grammarian Spring 1939

Yarrow, Tony (1947 entry): died 27 Dec 2003: via Chris Bent

Younge, Peter James (1954 entry): died peacefully at Addenbrooke's Hospital, following a long illness, on Saturday, February 12th, 2011, aged 67. Beloved husband, father and grandfather, he will be dearly missed by Marian, Sophie, Emily, John, Will, Damion, David and Sebastian. Funeral service at Cambridge City Crematorium, February 23rd, 2011: via Trevor Lee

The Editor would appreciate further contributions for this page on the following:
Mrs AL Smith
.. and any others - staff and boys - for which you have material.

last updated 31/5/24

IN MEMORIAM