It is with great sadness that I announce that Geoff Wright passed away on Tuesday afternoon 28 June 2016 aged 92.
Geoff was an integral part of the group since its inception in 1977 and its trusted treasurer for many years. Even more so he epitomised the group with his cheery enthusiasm and welcoming nature.
My personal memories of Geoff start with my very first outdoor meeting with the group. It could have felt intimidating going out with a group of unknown birdwatchers, all much more expert than me, but Geoff and Cynthia gave myself and my wife Maria such a warm welcome that we never looked back. I am forever indebted to the kindness of Geoff and Cynthia when, a few years later, they showed us around the bird reserves on the north Norfolk coast. It was such a warm hearted gesture to share their holiday with us during which we saw so many firsts such as merlin, red-breasted flycatcher and Lady Amherst’s pheasants. We had a wonderful time.
To Cynthia and family my deepest condolences. To Geoff may your legacy continue in our group that always has a friendly smile and warm welcome to all those who join us on our trips or come to our talks. RIP.
Geoff Wright with Margaret (l) and Cynthia (r) at Gibraltar Point, 2008
Paul
Very sad news Paul. RIP Geoff. ????
Ian and I are so sorry to hear this news. We have very fond memories of Geoff.
So sorry to hear about Geoff, he had become very frail of late.
Such sad news but wonderful memories of a lovely man. He will be much missed.
We will miss Geoff very much.
He thoroughly enjoyed his bird-watching and inspired us to do the same. He had a great sense of humour (how many times did we hear his, ‘once bittern, twice shy’ joke?) and was always helpful & encouraging. Yes, great memories of a lovely man.
Sally & Malcolm
Funeral details for Geoff are as follows:
Funeral service will be held on 12 July at 3:30pm at Sidcup Kenmal Park, new crematorium.
Afterwards at the Ship, Southfleet.
The family requests no flowers, instead donations can be made to Diabetes UK or Ellenor Hospice UK
Paul
A message from Maureen Batchelor, Geoff’s daughter:
Hi Paul,
Cynthia, Vivien and I would like to thank the members for their cards and sympathy at this sad time. Dad never lost his passion for birds be it the humble Sparrow to the rare sighting of an Osprey.
Whilst Dad was ill he would sit in his favourite chair with his binoculars at his side and enjoy the sight of Tits making their nest in the box he erected, also the Goldfinches visiting the feeders hanging from the apple trees and a Pheasant that strutted across the garden every day looking as Dad said “like the Duke of Edinburgh”!
Mum is hoping to attend the indoor meetings again and looks forward to seeing you all.
Kind Regards,
Maureen.