We met in 1984 when I became minister at Upholland. John was an able and enthusiastic Local Preacher - if his hands were amputated, he would lose the power of speech! Planning All Age Worship together was creative and fun and there was someone prodding me to encourage John to offer for ordained ministry. Dorothy has always been his quiet, constant support. I was privileged to be the assisting minister at John’s ordination. John’s powerful voice and infectious laugh have been silenced yet his influence remains in places and people. My thoughts are with you, his family, and with those gathering today; my prayers are of gratitude for having known this character with a huge personality and for John’s family. May he rest in peace and rise in glory. Marian Jones