St Marys Church, Charlton on Otmoor was packed for the funeral service for our late branch president, Willie Haynes on 4th October. Ringers who knew Willie were out in strength, including several from neighbouring branches and from further afield. Naturally, there was plenty of ringing both before and afterwards which I think Willie would have approved of.
In a moving service, which celebrated Willie’s long and active life, ringing played a significant part. Not only was Belfry Praise included in the hymns, but Kathryn Grant, Branch Secretary gave an address concerning Willie’s ringing career and related involvement with Branch and Guild, while vicar Lisa included many ringing references in her address, as well as Willie’s pivotal role in Charlton Church and community and which spoke of her and Willie’s strong friendship.
That evening, officers from Bicester Branch, including Branch Ringing Masters Jeremy Adams, Richard Haseldine, Treasurer Anne Martin, Vice President Teresa Carter and Kathryn Grant and myself gathered at Charlton tower to ring a nicely-struck quarter peal of Grandsire Doubles. It was really nice to meet afterwards with Teressa, Willie’s daughter and family who were listening just outside the church.
Three quarter peals have now been dedicated to Willie’s memory with the expectation of at least one or even two 8-bell Quarter Peal Attempts to celebrate his life.
Rest in Peace, Willie!
God Bless Willie ❤️