Deaths

We are sorry to learn of two recent deaths, both of them former pupils of the school.

Jacqueline Bairstow, who left Birkdale in 1966, passed away on Wednesday 25 January following heart surgery in Torpoint, Cornwall. She lived an active life and was very much involved with the charity Heartswell South West. Jacqui was also an active user of Facebook under her married name as Jacqui Dore. Our condolences go to her daughter Becky and the rest of Jacqui’s family.

28-year-old Billie-Jane Coulton was hit by a train at Mexborough station [in South Yorkshire] just after midnight on Thursday 26 January. Mystery surrounds this tragic incident, but police are not treating it as suspicious following earlier reports of two men being arrested.

Dorothy Griffiths has let us know that Robert Taylor recently passed away after suffering from cancer. Robert left the school in 1957.

Many of you may now be aware that Mr John Furness, Principal from 1956-76, passed away sometime during the weekend of 22/23 January. He had been admitted to hospital, and died peacefully under their care. Mr Furness had been unwell for some time and was staying in a nursing home before being admitted to hospital.

Mr Furness’ funeral took place at St James’ Church on Lulworth Road in Birkdale on 2 February. The service was lovely, and the school was well represented by both ex-pupils and staff. Miss Clark, who was Mr Furness’ Deputy for 18 of the 20 years he was Principal, made a speech reflecting on the years she worked with him.

Several former members of staff were present; these include teachers Miss Dray, Miss Daintith, Mrs Goodall, Mrs Morris, Mrs Rothwell, Mr Henderson, Mr Birkby and Mr Fyles. Classroom Assistant Mrs Hunt was also there as was former Principal Mr Loxham with his wife. Mrs Pattison from the school office also attended the service.

The family went on to the Crematorium after the service at St James, and refreshments were laid on at the Cambridge Hotel afterwards.

Donations were given to the Alzheimer’s Society.

We are sad to report the death of George Millington who passed away in Southport at 6.45pm on 8 January. George was married to former pupil Maureen Hegarty.

We send our condolences to Maureen, her family and friends.

Update 13.01.11: George’s funeral will be taking place at Christ Church at 10am on 20 January.

We are sorry to report the death of Mrs Joan Downs, who worked at the school many years ago. Her funeral is on Friday, 23 April at Southport Crematorium at 11am.

We are sorry to report the death of Rev. Colin Pope of Emmanuel Church, Southport. Rev. Pope will be remembered by some of you as he took a keen interest in the school, and on a number of occasions, the school held a Carol Service at Emmanuel Church.

Rev. Colin Pope died suddenly on 16 September. He leaves behind a loving wife and two children. We send our condolences to his family at this sad time.

We are sorry to hear of the death of Graham Formstone‘s wife who died on 20 April after a short illness. Some of you will remember her attending past reunions with Graham.

Our condolences go to Graham and his family at this sad time.