Douglas passed away on 21st March 2013 and was laid to rest on Tuesday 9th April 2013, three days before his 73rd birthday, at Elstow Abbey Church of St Mary and St Helena, Elstow, where he had been a regular bell ringer in the past and assisted with pollarding the avenue of trees through the church yard.

The funeral service was conducted by the Revd Roger Chapman.  Family mourners included: twin sons Adam and Mark Walmsley representing Gabriel, grandson, Mrs Enid Goodman, sister, Mrs Margaret Cockburn, long time friend, Mrs Fiona Whalley, niece, Ms Zoe Gates, Mr & Mrs Carl Goodman, nephew representing Mr & Mrs Jason Goodman.

Mark gave a tribute to their father from his early life growing up in Bulwick and his Civil Engineering career both in the UK and in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. He spoke of his hobbies as a keen stamp collector, a member of the Bee Keepers Association and an ardent gardener. Douglas had a very keen interest in Free Masonry and had attended Lodges in various parts of the world. Adam read a passage from Corinthians Chapter 13, v1-13.  Family were invited to stand by the coffin during the closing prayer, the Nunc Dimittis, Luke 2. 29.  The final committal was conducted at Bedford Crematorium where the strains of Johnny Cash’s “I’ll walk the line” played out the final act of farewell to a father, grandfather, brother, uncle, devoted friend and neighbour.

The family would like to thank everyone for the generous donations to the charity “Fight for Sight” in memory of Douglas who donated his cornea.

Enid Goodman