February 3, 2023
February 3, 2023
May they both rest in perfect peace and rise in glory .
A very warm and heartfelt welcome to the memorial website for our beloved parents Marion 'Mavis' Pritchard (nee Witter), and Ronald 'Ron' Pritchard, beloved parents to Beverly, Deborah, and Andrew, and doting grandparents to Giovanni, Stefan, Jamie, and Hayden.
The family has set up this website to collect the wonderful and happy memories of our loving parents.
Mum and Dad had 65 years of loving marriage together and never spent a night apart from each other in all that time.
This was their journey
Mavis, set off from her homeland in Jamaica when she was only 22, determined to make a new life for herself in the UK. And what a life she lived, becoming an integral part of the local community, helping and inspiring young people, and always showing love, compassion, and kindness to family, friends, and strangers. She was strong, courageous, and fearless, a tour de force to be reckoned with who when she made up her mind to do something, she made it happen.
She left a legacy for all of her family and friends of a lady who was well ahead of her time in who she was, in her thinking, and achieving her ambitions.
Sadly Dad passed away on the morning of 1st April 2020, from a broken heart, less than 8 months after the death of his beloved wife Mavis.
Unfortunately, owing to the Coronavirus pandemic, we were not allowed to give him the send-off he deserved.
Ronald (Ronnie) Albert Francis Pritchard was born on the 28th of May 1932 in Hoxton, East London. He was the second eldest after his brother George and was followed by brothers Lenny and Tony. He had three sisters called Helen (Queenie), Patricia, and Ann.
George, Ronnie, and Queenie were evacuated to Cornwall during WW II, while their mother stayed in the East End with her three youngest children. The main reason they had to stay was that my grandfather’s experience as a master builder was valuable in rebuilding bomb-damaged structures. After the war, my grandfather passed on his bricklaying skills to my father.
He was an authentic cockney with a strong East End work ethic and associated family values. Upon completion of his National Service with the Royal Air Force (RAF), he began work as an accomplished bricklayer who was able to lay a domino (1000 bricks) a day.
In 1955, in spite of not having a driving licence, dad decided to establish a domestic paraffin oil delivery business. Together with his brother-in-law, they would send out their small fleet of tanker lorries full of “ESSO Blue Paraffin”.
By 1958, dad started to meet and become friends with several Jamaicans. Bill Hill and his wife Sadie were two of them. Dad and his brother-in -law supplied paraffin to Bill who had established a local route selling paraffin to most of the Caribbean community within the area.
Bill had the ambition to create the first Caribbean nightclub in London. Dad agreed to become the Company Secretary in order to help his friend achieve a Music and Dance license. Dad also did most of the building work on the club for him. The Pepper Pot Club opened in 1958 at 60 Green Lanes Haringey, with a main bar and dance area upstairs and a basement area. Every weekend, smartly dressed West Indians would gather to listen to the latest tunes from the ‘Melodisc' music label.
My parents first met in 1959 when dad was invited to a West Indian party in North London. Mum had attended the same party. The party was a new experience for my father, who found himself surrounded by Jamaicans of the Windrush generation, happy to have found work in post-war England. They all enjoyed basement parties using simple gramophones and eating Jamaican dishes.
Dad was not an extrovert; for much of the party, he stood quietly against a wall just watching and drinking. My mother was an elegant, attractive, woman who took the initiative and asked him to dance. After an evening of enjoying each other’s company, dad asked mum on a date.
Famously, when mum asked dad what car he drove, he pointed to a red Double Decker bus. That snapshot in time was one of two people with very little except for great ambition and a wish for a better life. As a term of endearment from that day onward, my father called my mum as Doll.
They were soon living together in a small flat above the Pepper Pot Club. During that time mum was working at a light bulb factory, and one morning walking with mum on her way to work they noticed a “Flat for Rent” sign outside a property in Stoke Newington. Dad and mum rented the downstairs section of the property until they bought it as their first house in 1961. Times were hard and they spent their first Christmas with little furniture; Dad just managed to connect a gas cooker on Christmas Eve, allowing Mavis to cook a small roast chicken for dinner.
Dad was prepared to do whatever job he had to in order to provide for his family. This included working as a call-out driver for the local council and even driving dustbin lorries.
Two years later, my sister Deborah was born. Shortly after her birth, dad and mum sent for my half-sister Beverly. I was born on 25th October 1966 when my sisters were three and fourteen years old. As the youngest child and baby brother, I was somewhat unruly.
Dad was a lifelong Arsenal supporter, a Pritchard family tradition carried on over four generations. This was were my love for the game grew. If we couldn't get to a match I would often stand in the back garden with him, listening to the game on the radio but able to hear the cheers from the old Highbury Stadium when Arsenal scored.
Dad being an exceptional bricklayer had started working in partnership with mums younger brother uncle Charlie who was also a builder. This led to many private building contracts, due mainly to their standing in the West Indian community. But also their work was popular amongst the Jewish Orthodox community of Stamford Hill. They would employ many of the local wayward youth to work as labours. Regardless, dad took pride in teaching them brick-laying skills as had been taught to him.
By the mid-1970's I was also getting my own private tuition from my dad. I would regularly accompany him on a Saturday morning to building jobs. Now that the Asian community had come to know about "Mr Ron the builder," his reasonable prices, and good work his business was growing and our family started to prosper, my parents found themselves in the fortunate position of being able to buy other properties.
Mum and dad were an unstoppable force. In 1986 they managed to buy a run-down off licence in Homerton East London. Dad with his building skills extended the building. Coupled with my parent's hard work ethic "Hackney Wine Corner" soon became a successful family business that went on to serve the local community for over 20 years.
What can I say about our dad; He loved us. I could see it in his words, his face, and his actions. He loved our mum. And was always faithful to her. He was honest, both to us and to others. I never remember him telling a lie. He worked hard. He understood the value of a hard day’s work and wasn’t afraid of it. He cared about people more than money. He helped others. He looked for opportunities to serve—especially those who couldn’t help themselves. He was generous. With his home, his money, his time, and his energy. He made us laugh. It was always fun to spend time with him. He loved life. He cherished all the moments of life—the big ones and the little ones. He was proud of us. He told us often. But he pushed us to improve. He parented out of love and a genuine desire for us to succeed. He saw the best in people. He loved his family. He cared for his parents. He was always good to mom. His love for her provided a healthy model for my family. He had a smile every morning.
Each day provided a wealth of opportunity. And he chose to greet it with a smile. He was unselfish. Life was always about more than getting the most for yourself. He was wise. He had a healthy grasp on people, life, and situations. He was quick to forgive. He knew that he had been forgiven much. And was quick to offer that same grace to others. He didn’t let culture dictate his beliefs. I knew I could count on him when I needed him. Anytime, day or night. For some reason, I couldn’t get away with lying to him. He demanded honesty and I respected that. He could read me too well. He dreamed big dreams for me. Even when I didn’t believe in myself, he did. He loved his job. He worked hard at his job not because of the money, but because he believed in what he did. And with this many life lessons to teach my children, I better not waste a single day—including this one.
“Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”
In honor of them, this network is about preserving the history of the Pritchard and Witter family for future generations.
As we grow older, knowing one’s history and sense of identity becomes evermore important. In today’s digital world, we are given the opportunity to record our family legacy.
Video (still frame)
We filmed the church service, burial and reception. An edited video slideshow of the day's proceedings has now been uploaded to the Gallery section of this website under the video tab, titled Video tribute to Marion 'Mavis' Rebecca Pritchard.
Audio:
A selection of Mavis and Ron's favorite songs can be listened to as background music, whilst navigating your way through this website. By simply going onto the Gallery section and then pressing the tab marked Audio, you will be able to choose from a variety of their favorite songs".
Order of Service
Introit ~ Abide with me
Collect ~ Fr Morris
Eulogy ~ Johnathan Kong
Tribute 1~ Patricia Witter Alridge (niece)
Tribute 2 ~ Helen (sister-in-law)
Hymn ~ What a friend
Revelation 21 ~ Rosemarie (niece)
Psalm 23 ~ Response: The Lord is my Shepherd ~ Sandra (niece)
Hymn ~ Amazing Grace
John 6 ~ read by Fr Rimmer
Sermon ~ Fr Beer
Offertory ~ How great thou art
Eucharistic Prayer
Holy Communion
Hymn ~ The old rugged Cross
Commendation and Blessing
Recessional ~ West life ~ You raise me up
The family has set up this website to collect the wonderful and happy memories of our loving parents.
Mum and Dad had 65 years of loving marriage together and never spent a night apart from each other in all that time.
This was their journey
Mavis, set off from her homeland in Jamaica when she was only 22, determined to make a new life for herself in the UK. And what a life she lived, becoming an integral part of the local community, helping and inspiring young people, and always showing love, compassion, and kindness to family, friends, and strangers. She was strong, courageous, and fearless, a tour de force to be reckoned with who when she made up her mind to do something, she made it happen.
She left a legacy for all of her family and friends of a lady who was well ahead of her time in who she was, in her thinking, and achieving her ambitions.
Sadly Dad passed away on the morning of 1st April 2020, from a broken heart, less than 8 months after the death of his beloved wife Mavis.
Unfortunately, owing to the Coronavirus pandemic, we were not allowed to give him the send-off he deserved.
Ronald (Ronnie) Albert Francis Pritchard was born on the 28th of May 1932 in Hoxton, East London. He was the second eldest after his brother George and was followed by brothers Lenny and Tony. He had three sisters called Helen (Queenie), Patricia, and Ann.
George, Ronnie, and Queenie were evacuated to Cornwall during WW II, while their mother stayed in the East End with her three youngest children. The main reason they had to stay was that my grandfather’s experience as a master builder was valuable in rebuilding bomb-damaged structures. After the war, my grandfather passed on his bricklaying skills to my father.
He was an authentic cockney with a strong East End work ethic and associated family values. Upon completion of his National Service with the Royal Air Force (RAF), he began work as an accomplished bricklayer who was able to lay a domino (1000 bricks) a day.
In 1955, in spite of not having a driving licence, dad decided to establish a domestic paraffin oil delivery business. Together with his brother-in-law, they would send out their small fleet of tanker lorries full of “ESSO Blue Paraffin”.
By 1958, dad started to meet and become friends with several Jamaicans. Bill Hill and his wife Sadie were two of them. Dad and his brother-in -law supplied paraffin to Bill who had established a local route selling paraffin to most of the Caribbean community within the area.
Bill had the ambition to create the first Caribbean nightclub in London. Dad agreed to become the Company Secretary in order to help his friend achieve a Music and Dance license. Dad also did most of the building work on the club for him. The Pepper Pot Club opened in 1958 at 60 Green Lanes Haringey, with a main bar and dance area upstairs and a basement area. Every weekend, smartly dressed West Indians would gather to listen to the latest tunes from the ‘Melodisc' music label.
My parents first met in 1959 when dad was invited to a West Indian party in North London. Mum had attended the same party. The party was a new experience for my father, who found himself surrounded by Jamaicans of the Windrush generation, happy to have found work in post-war England. They all enjoyed basement parties using simple gramophones and eating Jamaican dishes.
Dad was not an extrovert; for much of the party, he stood quietly against a wall just watching and drinking. My mother was an elegant, attractive, woman who took the initiative and asked him to dance. After an evening of enjoying each other’s company, dad asked mum on a date.
Famously, when mum asked dad what car he drove, he pointed to a red Double Decker bus. That snapshot in time was one of two people with very little except for great ambition and a wish for a better life. As a term of endearment from that day onward, my father called my mum as Doll.
They were soon living together in a small flat above the Pepper Pot Club. During that time mum was working at a light bulb factory, and one morning walking with mum on her way to work they noticed a “Flat for Rent” sign outside a property in Stoke Newington. Dad and mum rented the downstairs section of the property until they bought it as their first house in 1961. Times were hard and they spent their first Christmas with little furniture; Dad just managed to connect a gas cooker on Christmas Eve, allowing Mavis to cook a small roast chicken for dinner.
Dad was prepared to do whatever job he had to in order to provide for his family. This included working as a call-out driver for the local council and even driving dustbin lorries.
Two years later, my sister Deborah was born. Shortly after her birth, dad and mum sent for my half-sister Beverly. I was born on 25th October 1966 when my sisters were three and fourteen years old. As the youngest child and baby brother, I was somewhat unruly.
Dad was a lifelong Arsenal supporter, a Pritchard family tradition carried on over four generations. This was were my love for the game grew. If we couldn't get to a match I would often stand in the back garden with him, listening to the game on the radio but able to hear the cheers from the old Highbury Stadium when Arsenal scored.
Dad being an exceptional bricklayer had started working in partnership with mums younger brother uncle Charlie who was also a builder. This led to many private building contracts, due mainly to their standing in the West Indian community. But also their work was popular amongst the Jewish Orthodox community of Stamford Hill. They would employ many of the local wayward youth to work as labours. Regardless, dad took pride in teaching them brick-laying skills as had been taught to him.
By the mid-1970's I was also getting my own private tuition from my dad. I would regularly accompany him on a Saturday morning to building jobs. Now that the Asian community had come to know about "Mr Ron the builder," his reasonable prices, and good work his business was growing and our family started to prosper, my parents found themselves in the fortunate position of being able to buy other properties.
Mum and dad were an unstoppable force. In 1986 they managed to buy a run-down off licence in Homerton East London. Dad with his building skills extended the building. Coupled with my parent's hard work ethic "Hackney Wine Corner" soon became a successful family business that went on to serve the local community for over 20 years.
What can I say about our dad; He loved us. I could see it in his words, his face, and his actions. He loved our mum. And was always faithful to her. He was honest, both to us and to others. I never remember him telling a lie. He worked hard. He understood the value of a hard day’s work and wasn’t afraid of it. He cared about people more than money. He helped others. He looked for opportunities to serve—especially those who couldn’t help themselves. He was generous. With his home, his money, his time, and his energy. He made us laugh. It was always fun to spend time with him. He loved life. He cherished all the moments of life—the big ones and the little ones. He was proud of us. He told us often. But he pushed us to improve. He parented out of love and a genuine desire for us to succeed. He saw the best in people. He loved his family. He cared for his parents. He was always good to mom. His love for her provided a healthy model for my family. He had a smile every morning.
Each day provided a wealth of opportunity. And he chose to greet it with a smile. He was unselfish. Life was always about more than getting the most for yourself. He was wise. He had a healthy grasp on people, life, and situations. He was quick to forgive. He knew that he had been forgiven much. And was quick to offer that same grace to others. He didn’t let culture dictate his beliefs. I knew I could count on him when I needed him. Anytime, day or night. For some reason, I couldn’t get away with lying to him. He demanded honesty and I respected that. He could read me too well. He dreamed big dreams for me. Even when I didn’t believe in myself, he did. He loved his job. He worked hard at his job not because of the money, but because he believed in what he did. And with this many life lessons to teach my children, I better not waste a single day—including this one.
“Perhaps they are not the stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.”
In honor of them, this network is about preserving the history of the Pritchard and Witter family for future generations.
As we grow older, knowing one’s history and sense of identity becomes evermore important. In today’s digital world, we are given the opportunity to record our family legacy.
Video (still frame)
We filmed the church service, burial and reception. An edited video slideshow of the day's proceedings has now been uploaded to the Gallery section of this website under the video tab, titled Video tribute to Marion 'Mavis' Rebecca Pritchard.
Audio:
A selection of Mavis and Ron's favorite songs can be listened to as background music, whilst navigating your way through this website. By simply going onto the Gallery section and then pressing the tab marked Audio, you will be able to choose from a variety of their favorite songs".
Order of Service
Introit ~ Abide with me
Collect ~ Fr Morris
Eulogy ~ Johnathan Kong
Tribute 1~ Patricia Witter Alridge (niece)
Tribute 2 ~ Helen (sister-in-law)
Hymn ~ What a friend
Revelation 21 ~ Rosemarie (niece)
Psalm 23 ~ Response: The Lord is my Shepherd ~ Sandra (niece)
Hymn ~ Amazing Grace
John 6 ~ read by Fr Rimmer
Sermon ~ Fr Beer
Offertory ~ How great thou art
Eucharistic Prayer
Holy Communion
Hymn ~ The old rugged Cross
Commendation and Blessing
Recessional ~ West life ~ You raise me up
Tributes
Leave a tribute
April 22, 2020
April 22, 2020
Mr Ronald Pritchard had a very fruitful & contented life it seems. A very quiet man that was respected in his community. He worked for his children & wife and the betterment of hard times. It goes to show you that your destiny is paved out for you way before o e gets to realize and if your father did not do the jobs back in the 60’s for the West Indian community he may never have been invited to that party where he met your mum. I’m sure he will be sorely missed as a father, brother, friend, neighbor grandfather etc. He has now found his wings to fly with his wife your mum. May he REIP. Anne-Marie Johnson
April 5, 2020
April 5, 2020
My heart goes out to the Pritchard family for the sad loss of their beloved dad & my dear Uncle Ronnie. He will be forever in our hearts, you are all in our prayers.
April 2, 2020
April 2, 2020
Dear uncle Ronnie you have gone to be with your queen..... you will be sadly missed . May you and aunty Mavis RIEP
February 16, 2020
February 16, 2020
Forever missed.
January 31, 2020
January 31, 2020
through family circumstances and later a long ongoing health problem i hadn't seen my aunt for many years but my heart was with her often and always hope everyday i would get the chance even one more time to see her again sadly for me that hope never came even through my childhood my mother always,always talked about her with a great love and affection and said they had been instant friends when first introduced as my uncles new girlfriend i have never forgotten and never will forget her beautiful kindness and words to me as a child and especially at my mothers funeral and for what she did for use and even though i hadn't seen her for many years she was always my special auntie which is why i never forgot her and i never will and where ever you are now auntie Mavis i want you to know i always thought of you.......and always will......xxxxx
December 21, 2019
December 21, 2019
Our first Christmas without you.
I awake each morning to start a new day,
But the pain of losing you never goes away.
I go about the things I have to do,
And as the hours pass, I think again of you.
I want to call you and just hear your voice.
Then I remember that I have no choice,
For you are not there and now my heart cries
Just to see you again, to tell you goodbye.
To say, "Mum I love you and I always will,"
And hope that much of you in me you've instilled.
The day that you left I just didn't know
That you were going where I couldn't go.
And now all my memories of you are so dear,
But gosh, how I miss you and wish you were here.
Who now can hear me when I need to cry?
It's so hard to tell you, "Mum goodbye."
Someday I know all will be well
And I'll see you again with stories to tell
Of how you were missed and how yor grandchildren have grown
And how good it is to finally be home.
Until then my memories of you I'll keep near,
And I'll pass them on to those who are dear.
I miss you, Mum!
I awake each morning to start a new day,
But the pain of losing you never goes away.
I go about the things I have to do,
And as the hours pass, I think again of you.
I want to call you and just hear your voice.
Then I remember that I have no choice,
For you are not there and now my heart cries
Just to see you again, to tell you goodbye.
To say, "Mum I love you and I always will,"
And hope that much of you in me you've instilled.
The day that you left I just didn't know
That you were going where I couldn't go.
And now all my memories of you are so dear,
But gosh, how I miss you and wish you were here.
Who now can hear me when I need to cry?
It's so hard to tell you, "Mum goodbye."
Someday I know all will be well
And I'll see you again with stories to tell
Of how you were missed and how yor grandchildren have grown
And how good it is to finally be home.
Until then my memories of you I'll keep near,
And I'll pass them on to those who are dear.
I miss you, Mum!
September 1, 2019
September 1, 2019
Aunt Gloria sends her love and condolences on behalf of our family. My mom told me before leaving for England, Aunt Mavis lived with her and Aunt Clara my grandmother. Through the years Aunt Mavis kept in touch with us and never forgot us. I will always remember her has being beautiful and regal. To the family, to be absent from this body is to be present with the Lord. Which is so true. However, be comforted by this hope found in Corinthians 15:51-52}51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, 52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
August 27, 2019
August 27, 2019
God you cherry picked the very best to take to your kingdom. But we have to accept that . And find comfort that she is with you.
August 25, 2019
August 25, 2019
I attended the funeral of the late Mavis Pritchard, it was a bittersweet experience. So sad to say goodbye but heartwarming to watch a service so beautifully done by her family, the words people chose to describe this wonderful lady were full of love, touching and heartwarming, the send off after dinner was nothing but a celebration of her life. Everyone there was so nice and friendly a reflection of the wonderful human being that Mavis was. Her children who she loved so very much did her proud there was nothing but love put into her celebration of life. Rest in eternal perfect peace Mrs Pritchard, you were a joy and a privilege to meet, you touched the heart of everyone who met you, no one could say they met you and you did not leave some kind of good impression on them. You are unforgettable and will always remain in my memories and in my heart.
August 16, 2019
August 16, 2019
Dear mum.
Every day we will celebrate your life in our hearts. We will remember our time together with happiness.Gone but not forgotten, R.I.P.
Every day we will celebrate your life in our hearts. We will remember our time together with happiness.Gone but not forgotten, R.I.P.
August 14, 2019
August 14, 2019
I'm writing this tribute on behalf of my parents Osbourne and Myrtle Holness . Mavis was my cousin who was full of laughter and jokes and loved her homeland Jamaica. When me and my wife decided to move to Jamaica Mavis and Ronnie would often visit and we spent many nights talking about the past and enjoying fry fish and bammie which so loved. My cousin you will be greatly missed by all . Till we meet again love you always.
August 14, 2019
August 14, 2019
My beloved aunty Mavis..... so sorry I'm not able to attend your send off the beautiful land God has prepared for us , as I'm in the land you so loved Jamaica.
I will never ever forget what you use to tell me ....."Live life now and enjoy whatever you have as I can afford the best steak but mi teeth to old now and cant chew it "
You are gone but will never ever be forgotten.
I will never ever forget what you use to tell me ....."Live life now and enjoy whatever you have as I can afford the best steak but mi teeth to old now and cant chew it "
You are gone but will never ever be forgotten.
August 14, 2019
August 14, 2019
I would like to pass on condolences from Mrs Leonie Eccleston and family on the sad passing of her dear long standing friend Mavis who will be truly missed by us all.
From Mrs Eccleston and Family.
From Mrs Eccleston and Family.
August 14, 2019
August 14, 2019
Dear Mavis, much loved friend and cousin, so many happy memories we will miss you, forever in our hearts.
Condolences to all the family, thinking of you at this sad time.
Cherry, Herman and family xx
Condolences to all the family, thinking of you at this sad time.
Cherry, Herman and family xx
August 13, 2019
August 13, 2019
Andy and family no more pain , no suffering just rest .It is a sad time hen you lose your mother that is so precious to you all and there are no words to take away that pain but the memories and love never go but it is time to celebrate mavis life for who she was and that is fun and laughter so don’t.be afraid to laugh ,cry and celebrate her life what she would have wanted.and is your father who is going to need a lot of love now from the family From Anne Marie’s mum Evelyn
August 13, 2019
August 13, 2019
Dear Andy & Pritchard family, no one can know what you've lost and only you will understand the cost of loosing your mum, your wife, but I feel your pain. Just know that you will forever have sweet sweet memories, photos & the laughter, her affection left in your hearts that you mum/ wife brought to you. She will be there in times of trouble or when you need questions answered or thinking what would she do in this situation. She is gone but never forgotten. Rest in forever piece Mavis.
From the Johnson Family at 45 Barrett's Grove. Maria. Xx.
From the Johnson Family at 45 Barrett's Grove. Maria. Xx.
August 13, 2019
August 13, 2019
My deepest condolences to uncle Ronald,Beverly,Debrah, Andrew and family i am sadden to hear that auntie had passed i will always remember her kindness and how welcome she made me feel wen I would see her i will love you always and may you rest in eternal peace.
August 13, 2019
August 13, 2019
To Uncle Ronald, Beverly, Deborah, Andrew, and the rest of the family. My heart goes out to you at this time of deep sorrow.
I remember going to see Aunt Mavis when i was a child. My mum, Elsie, would take Mark and I, and we would play with Deb and Andrew while our mums chatted. I used to love going downstairs to see all the beautiful clothes she had stored in the closet. I will always remember Aunt Mavis as a very warm and caring person who could enjoy a good laugh with my mum.
I pray The Lord will wrap her family in his comforting and loving arms and bless you with His grace and peace.
With all my love,
Jacqui
I remember going to see Aunt Mavis when i was a child. My mum, Elsie, would take Mark and I, and we would play with Deb and Andrew while our mums chatted. I used to love going downstairs to see all the beautiful clothes she had stored in the closet. I will always remember Aunt Mavis as a very warm and caring person who could enjoy a good laugh with my mum.
I pray The Lord will wrap her family in his comforting and loving arms and bless you with His grace and peace.
With all my love,
Jacqui
August 13, 2019
August 13, 2019
My Grandmother was a kind and loving woman who would do anything to protect her family. She loved to cook and feed others, my special memories are of her famous rice and peas. Not only have I lost my grandmother but also my inspiration my protector and my guidance. I vow to one day make her proud to be my grandmother and pray she guides me and watches me grow into a man who brings honour to her memory,
R.I.P Grandma
Hayden Pritchard
R.I.P Grandma
Hayden Pritchard
August 13, 2019
August 13, 2019
My mother Mavis Pritchard was a true inspiration. She lived her life with the belief that no difficulty could discourage, no obstacle dismay and no trouble dishearten. Difficulties were but dares of fate, obstacles but hurdles to try her skill, and troubles but bitter tonics that gave her strength. Mum was renowned for her wisdom sayings and quotes, such as 'A new broom sweeps clean but an old broom knows the corners'.
But my personal favourite was 'It's better you die and leave something than everything dies and leaves you?'
Well mum you may have gone but your legacy lives on.
Andrew Pritchard
But my personal favourite was 'It's better you die and leave something than everything dies and leaves you?'
Well mum you may have gone but your legacy lives on.
Andrew Pritchard
August 13, 2019
August 13, 2019
Our hearts go out to you and your family. Although I don’t know exactly what to say, I want you to know that I am with you in thought and wish you comfort and peace as you remember dear Aunt Mavis.
August 13, 2019
August 13, 2019
She was a caring woman who had an abundance of love for her family. The memories she created with us will live on in our hearts.
August 12, 2019
August 12, 2019
Grace
My depraved soul's unearthed
By the Holy Ghost's breath
And given new birth
Out of spiritual death
This wretch is turned 'round
Fit with eyes to believe
A lost sheep is found
And her Shepherd received
My blots are each edited
Out in Christ's fount
His righteousness credited
To my bankrupt account
A prisoner's been pardoned
No debt left to pay
A heart which was hardened
Becomes pliable clay
My life's set apart
Now from worldly regression
Picked out from the start
Made for Christ's own possession
I'm purchased with blood
Shed on Golgotha's tree
A slave bought by God
And fully set free
My sins were all laid
On the head of a Scapegoat
Who carried their weight
To a desert remote
Once an object of wrath
And deserving hell's fire
But Jesus took my bath's
Conflagration of God's ire
So an enemy no more
I'm brought into God's fold
Carried through His door
And out of night's cold
He calls me His child
His heir and His bride
Though once an orphan wild
Now seated at Christ's side
And soon He'll return
When salvation's complete
When no longer I'll yearn
For His own face I'll meet!
My depraved soul's unearthed
By the Holy Ghost's breath
And given new birth
Out of spiritual death
This wretch is turned 'round
Fit with eyes to believe
A lost sheep is found
And her Shepherd received
My blots are each edited
Out in Christ's fount
His righteousness credited
To my bankrupt account
A prisoner's been pardoned
No debt left to pay
A heart which was hardened
Becomes pliable clay
My life's set apart
Now from worldly regression
Picked out from the start
Made for Christ's own possession
I'm purchased with blood
Shed on Golgotha's tree
A slave bought by God
And fully set free
My sins were all laid
On the head of a Scapegoat
Who carried their weight
To a desert remote
Once an object of wrath
And deserving hell's fire
But Jesus took my bath's
Conflagration of God's ire
So an enemy no more
I'm brought into God's fold
Carried through His door
And out of night's cold
He calls me His child
His heir and His bride
Though once an orphan wild
Now seated at Christ's side
And soon He'll return
When salvation's complete
When no longer I'll yearn
For His own face I'll meet!
August 9, 2019
August 9, 2019
Mrs Pritchard aka Mar Baker, or Mavis as I eventually got to call her was an extraordinary, strong and passionate woman.
Her infectious laughter could be heard almost everytime I walked through the door of the off licence that she owened in Hackney.
When my eldest son 'Ben' was a toddler he couldn't wait to see her ,knowing fullwell she'd more than likely give him a free bag of sweets from off the counter and a tin of soft drink on the way out. This was just another display of her kindness and generosity which she showed towards others as part of her nature. I remember turning up at Mavis's house in Chingford one Sunday afternoon after being out all night raviing at one of Andy 's warehouse parties back in 1988, at the time I was just eighteen years old and Mavis gave me my first ever mango.
Being a born and bread East-End girl I'd only been accustomed to apples and pears. She looked at me in a matriacrch manor and said in her deep Jamacian accent 'Maggie lives to short you need to try something new'. Rest in peace Mavis, always loved and will never be forgotten.
Her infectious laughter could be heard almost everytime I walked through the door of the off licence that she owened in Hackney.
When my eldest son 'Ben' was a toddler he couldn't wait to see her ,knowing fullwell she'd more than likely give him a free bag of sweets from off the counter and a tin of soft drink on the way out. This was just another display of her kindness and generosity which she showed towards others as part of her nature. I remember turning up at Mavis's house in Chingford one Sunday afternoon after being out all night raviing at one of Andy 's warehouse parties back in 1988, at the time I was just eighteen years old and Mavis gave me my first ever mango.
Being a born and bread East-End girl I'd only been accustomed to apples and pears. She looked at me in a matriacrch manor and said in her deep Jamacian accent 'Maggie lives to short you need to try something new'. Rest in peace Mavis, always loved and will never be forgotten.
August 7, 2019
August 7, 2019
"Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die."
Mary Elizabeth Frye
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die."
Mary Elizabeth Frye
August 5, 2019
August 5, 2019
Mavis was one of God’s beautiful people who had a wonderful personality and a big kind soul. I was very fortunate that she was part of my childhood, spending time with them at weekends with my cousin Deborah and Andrew on sleepovers. She always had a wonderful smile and infectious laugh. She always tried to get me to eat "curry goat" which was always on the stove but my taste buds just didn't like it. Very humble, so hard working and ambitious. She supported and loved her family so much. Always kind and gentle. She will be missed very much. Rest in peace beautiful lady. Lots of love, Jan, Steve, Charlie & James xxxx
August 4, 2019
August 4, 2019
With my deepest sympathy,
On behalf of my dear cousin, Marion Pritchard better known as Mavis by us. She was a loving person to everyone. She was a woman of charity, giving to everyone. I could remember every holiday all aunts were getting their post cards with money. She made everyone feel loved and cared for. Cousin Mavis passing away means a lot to me, she and I used to pray together whenever she had a problem. She was very kind to me and she loved my family and I very much. Cousin Mavis was loved by everyone . The Lord saw it best to take her home at this time. So, to her dear husband, children, family and friends, we know the Lord will give you the strength to go on. Remember Job when he said the Lord giveth and taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord. Be of good comfort .
With Love,
Sis Olive Fraser
God bless
On behalf of my dear cousin, Marion Pritchard better known as Mavis by us. She was a loving person to everyone. She was a woman of charity, giving to everyone. I could remember every holiday all aunts were getting their post cards with money. She made everyone feel loved and cared for. Cousin Mavis passing away means a lot to me, she and I used to pray together whenever she had a problem. She was very kind to me and she loved my family and I very much. Cousin Mavis was loved by everyone . The Lord saw it best to take her home at this time. So, to her dear husband, children, family and friends, we know the Lord will give you the strength to go on. Remember Job when he said the Lord giveth and taketh away. Blessed be the name of the Lord. Be of good comfort .
With Love,
Sis Olive Fraser
God bless
August 3, 2019
August 3, 2019
Mere words cannot describe the special person my Aunt Mavis was. From a very early age I felt her love and knew in my heart I had a special place in hers. She was a wonderful example of how families supported and took care of each other. Her hospitality was boundless as evidenced by the constant stream of overseas family and friends who came to stay with her. Just as she opened her home, she opened her generous heart to those in need and less fortunate. She adored her family and showered them with her love and affection. I will miss hearing her distinctive laugh that rocked the house and seeing the twinkle in her eye when she talked about my Dad, her brother Charlie. Rest in Peace.
August 2, 2019
August 2, 2019
Mavis was one of God’s beautiful people who had a wonderful personality and a beautiful soul. I was lucky enough to have Mavis in my life for a number of years. I can’t say what Mavis used to call me but it was always with a wonderful smile and infectious laugh.Mavis had an impact on everyone she met and I know she will be sadly missed by many many people.Mavis is now flying high with the angels.Godbless you Mavis and may you Rest In Peace.all my love and best wishes Christopher aka Bergyxxxxx ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️♀️
Leave a Tribute
Recent Tributes
February 3, 2023
February 3, 2023
May they both rest in perfect peace and rise in glory .
April 22, 2020
April 22, 2020
Mr Ronald Pritchard had a very fruitful & contented life it seems. A very quiet man that was respected in his community. He worked for his children & wife and the betterment of hard times. It goes to show you that your destiny is paved out for you way before o e gets to realize and if your father did not do the jobs back in the 60’s for the West Indian community he may never have been invited to that party where he met your mum. I’m sure he will be sorely missed as a father, brother, friend, neighbor grandfather etc. He has now found his wings to fly with his wife your mum. May he REIP. Anne-Marie Johnson
April 5, 2020
April 5, 2020
My heart goes out to the Pritchard family for the sad loss of their beloved dad & my dear Uncle Ronnie. He will be forever in our hearts, you are all in our prayers.
Gallery
Mum and Dad Christmas 2023
Hackney wine Corner
Recent stories
Andrew Pritchard, my childhood memories
February 2, 2023
Of all the wonderful childhood memories I have of growing up, one stick's in my mind more so than any other. I remember being around five years of age and just like most of the kids at my junior school, I too had an obsession with Action Man. The blond-haired, eagle-eyed action figure featured a robust, articulated plastic body that was strung together with elastic. He stood about 12" high and wore a contemporary desert camouflage uniform. In addition, the toy manufacturer had come up with an ingenious idea, they decided to market a complete range of accessories, which included weapons, vehicles, and even a helicopter. All are carefully designed to feed the need of gullible children, whilst picking the pockets of their loving parents. Naturally being a spoilt little brat, I placed my parents under emotional blackmail. This came in the form of them buying me an action figure accessory every Sunday morning otherwise I'd sulk until they gave in. However one particular Sunday, my parents had gone through an extremely hard month struggling to pay the bills and put food on the table, the kind of thing that most parents tend to do for their children without a second thought. That Sunday morning they didn't even have twenty pence in silver between them. Yet I persisted to nag and whinge believing that if I continued I'd get my own way. At this point, mum was looking for a belt to give my backside hiding.
Needless to say, my father being the rational and considerate man he was, managed to come up with a solution. Every Sunday morning at 10.45 am the Changing of the Guard ceremony took place at Buckingham Palace. Despite of there being very little petrol in the family car, we drove to St James’s Palace, to see the Queen's Guard conduct a precision drill before marching down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace, preceded by Regimental Bands playing stirring music. To top the day off my father bought me a soft whip ice cream covered in strawberry syrup...with a flake. That day learnt money cannot replace memorable moment spent between a farther and his son.
Needless to say, my father being the rational and considerate man he was, managed to come up with a solution. Every Sunday morning at 10.45 am the Changing of the Guard ceremony took place at Buckingham Palace. Despite of there being very little petrol in the family car, we drove to St James’s Palace, to see the Queen's Guard conduct a precision drill before marching down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace, preceded by Regimental Bands playing stirring music. To top the day off my father bought me a soft whip ice cream covered in strawberry syrup...with a flake. That day learnt money cannot replace memorable moment spent between a farther and his son.
Archie
April 24, 2020
I first met Ronnie whilst working with Charlie, his brother in law. Ronnie was working for one of his local councils at the time. Charlie & I went to his house as Charlie needed a bricklayer as the job we were doing became dangerous & at the time was a young boy expelled from school at 13 years old.
The jobs I did for Charlie was really just cleaning & tidying, so I really wasn’t aware of the work that needed to be done as Charlie mainly did Plumbing & Plastering at that time. As I had left school early, I was grateful to meet Charlie and work for him.
I will never forget when I first started with Charlie, he would give me £1.50 per day, which by the end of the week was a lot of money in those days for a boy of my age.
When Charlie knocked at Ronnie’s door, his wife Mavis opened it and we went inside, and as you all know, if you know Mavis, her first words to Charlie were, and I’ll always remember this was my first experience of Mavis- Mavis said to her brother, “what nastiness brings you here in the afternoon?” As she said this, Charlie took off his cap and laughed as he looked across at Ronnie who was sitting on a chair at the table drinking his beloved tea as I got to learn very fast, Charlie started to explain why he had come round.
As he was explaining why, Mavis then came across to me immediately, as she stoked my face and held my hands, which I was not use to, she said to me “what is a lovely young boy doing with my scheming bastard of a brother?!” She then looked through me, made that Mavis laugh that we all knew and hugged me.
I could go on forever telling you stories of so many times from that day on to the sadness where we are now but as this is Ronnie‘s passing, I will tell you only a little of what this super, kind natured human was, always willing to help anyone who needed a helping hand, he was full of stories himself that he made me laugh for hours on end. I had so much love and respect for him but above all, before I forget to mention, and what I found out, was that for sure is was and I know this myself, I am 61 years old now, he was a Master Bricklayer.
I say the word ‘Master’ because Ronnie’s son Andrew and i always referred to anyone who was top of their game, we would say together ‘MASTER’ it was a joke between us, I myself, as a Bricklayer knows, and it was through Ronnie & Mavis that drove me on to do something with my life, Ronnie knew I was a good worker and kept pressing me to get a trade because as the years went by, Ronnie & Mavis came to my christening & confirmation of my then wife, myself and 3 children, which they became their god parents which I am so proud of because if my children worked as hard as they did, or half as hard I would be a very happy father.
I did at 19, take Ronnie’s advice to go to College. He took me down to Hackney College to sort things out for me and they sent me to a skill centre in Enfield where I got my City & Guilds certificate.I laid my first brick with Ronnie, and we did many jobs together after.
I remember one Sunday morning, I hadn’t seen Ronnie & Mavis for some time as I was working for my local council doing brick work maintenance, when I opened the door and saw them, I fell into both their arms, it was so great to see them both.
They had bought a house in Chingford and Ronnie wanted me to work weekends there when I had time off so as not to disrupt my council work in the week to help them with the works for their dream home, of course I obliged with both my arms open.
As I said there are so many stories to tell you, could go on forever. What I would like to finish in saying is if it wasn’t for Ronnie, I would never have become a Bricklayer, and go on to be a MASTER BUILDER!!! Just joking, that’s not for me to say!
Until we meet again Ronnie, God Bless
Love Archie XXXXXXX
The jobs I did for Charlie was really just cleaning & tidying, so I really wasn’t aware of the work that needed to be done as Charlie mainly did Plumbing & Plastering at that time. As I had left school early, I was grateful to meet Charlie and work for him.
I will never forget when I first started with Charlie, he would give me £1.50 per day, which by the end of the week was a lot of money in those days for a boy of my age.
When Charlie knocked at Ronnie’s door, his wife Mavis opened it and we went inside, and as you all know, if you know Mavis, her first words to Charlie were, and I’ll always remember this was my first experience of Mavis- Mavis said to her brother, “what nastiness brings you here in the afternoon?” As she said this, Charlie took off his cap and laughed as he looked across at Ronnie who was sitting on a chair at the table drinking his beloved tea as I got to learn very fast, Charlie started to explain why he had come round.
As he was explaining why, Mavis then came across to me immediately, as she stoked my face and held my hands, which I was not use to, she said to me “what is a lovely young boy doing with my scheming bastard of a brother?!” She then looked through me, made that Mavis laugh that we all knew and hugged me.
I could go on forever telling you stories of so many times from that day on to the sadness where we are now but as this is Ronnie‘s passing, I will tell you only a little of what this super, kind natured human was, always willing to help anyone who needed a helping hand, he was full of stories himself that he made me laugh for hours on end. I had so much love and respect for him but above all, before I forget to mention, and what I found out, was that for sure is was and I know this myself, I am 61 years old now, he was a Master Bricklayer.
I say the word ‘Master’ because Ronnie’s son Andrew and i always referred to anyone who was top of their game, we would say together ‘MASTER’ it was a joke between us, I myself, as a Bricklayer knows, and it was through Ronnie & Mavis that drove me on to do something with my life, Ronnie knew I was a good worker and kept pressing me to get a trade because as the years went by, Ronnie & Mavis came to my christening & confirmation of my then wife, myself and 3 children, which they became their god parents which I am so proud of because if my children worked as hard as they did, or half as hard I would be a very happy father.
I did at 19, take Ronnie’s advice to go to College. He took me down to Hackney College to sort things out for me and they sent me to a skill centre in Enfield where I got my City & Guilds certificate.I laid my first brick with Ronnie, and we did many jobs together after.
I remember one Sunday morning, I hadn’t seen Ronnie & Mavis for some time as I was working for my local council doing brick work maintenance, when I opened the door and saw them, I fell into both their arms, it was so great to see them both.
They had bought a house in Chingford and Ronnie wanted me to work weekends there when I had time off so as not to disrupt my council work in the week to help them with the works for their dream home, of course I obliged with both my arms open.
As I said there are so many stories to tell you, could go on forever. What I would like to finish in saying is if it wasn’t for Ronnie, I would never have become a Bricklayer, and go on to be a MASTER BUILDER!!! Just joking, that’s not for me to say!
Until we meet again Ronnie, God Bless
Love Archie XXXXXXX
R.I.P dad, you and mum are finally reunited
April 21, 2020
As you know my father Ronald Pritchard sadly passed away on the morning of 1st April 2020 and unfortunately, owing to the Coronavirus epidemic, we are not allowed to give him the send-off he deserves. This is both sad and painful to Deborah, Beverly and I, as we really would have liked to have been able to bring you all together to celebrate his life, but we have been told that is not possible. Given the current circumstances, I would like to ask you all to join us in marking the day of his funeral 23rd April 2020 (St George's Day) by lighting a candle at 12 noon and to spend a quiet moment remembering Dad and celebrating a life well lived.We intend to hold a fitting momorial service at some point in the near future.
Of all the wonderful childhood memories I have of growing up, one sticks in my mind more so than any other. I remember being around five years of age and just like most of the kids at my junior school, I too had an obsession with Action Man. The blond-haired, eagle eyed action figure featured a robust, articulated plastic body that was strung together with elastic. He stood about 12" high, and wore a contemporary desert camouflage uniform. In addition, the toy manufacturer had come up with an ingenious idea, they decided to market a complete range of accessories, which included weapons, vehicles, and even a helicopter. All carefully designed to feed the need of gullible children, whilst picking the pockets of their loving parents. Naturally being a spoilt little brat, I placed my parents under emotional blackmail. This came in the form of them buying me an action figure accessory every Sunday morning otherwise I'd sulk until they gave in.
However one particular Sunday, my parents had gone through an extremely hard month struggling to pay the bills and put food on the table, the kind of thing that most parents tend do for their children without a second thought. That Sunday morning they didn't even have twenty pence in silver between them. Yet I persisted to nag and whinge believing that if I continued I'd get my own way. At this point, mum was looking for a belt to give my backside a hiding.
Needless to say, my father being the rational and considerate man he was, managed to come up with a solution. Every Sunday morning at 10.45 am the Changing of the Guard ceremony took place at Buckingham Palace. Despite of there being very little petrol in the family car, we drove to St James’s Palace, to see the Queen's Guard conduct a precision drill before marching down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace, preceded by Regimental Bands playing stirring music. To top the day off my father bought me a soft whip ice cream covered in strawberry syrup...with a flake. That day I learnt money cannot replace a memorable moment spent between a father and their son.
R.I.P dad ♥️♥️♥️
Of all the wonderful childhood memories I have of growing up, one sticks in my mind more so than any other. I remember being around five years of age and just like most of the kids at my junior school, I too had an obsession with Action Man. The blond-haired, eagle eyed action figure featured a robust, articulated plastic body that was strung together with elastic. He stood about 12" high, and wore a contemporary desert camouflage uniform. In addition, the toy manufacturer had come up with an ingenious idea, they decided to market a complete range of accessories, which included weapons, vehicles, and even a helicopter. All carefully designed to feed the need of gullible children, whilst picking the pockets of their loving parents. Naturally being a spoilt little brat, I placed my parents under emotional blackmail. This came in the form of them buying me an action figure accessory every Sunday morning otherwise I'd sulk until they gave in.
However one particular Sunday, my parents had gone through an extremely hard month struggling to pay the bills and put food on the table, the kind of thing that most parents tend do for their children without a second thought. That Sunday morning they didn't even have twenty pence in silver between them. Yet I persisted to nag and whinge believing that if I continued I'd get my own way. At this point, mum was looking for a belt to give my backside a hiding.
Needless to say, my father being the rational and considerate man he was, managed to come up with a solution. Every Sunday morning at 10.45 am the Changing of the Guard ceremony took place at Buckingham Palace. Despite of there being very little petrol in the family car, we drove to St James’s Palace, to see the Queen's Guard conduct a precision drill before marching down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace, preceded by Regimental Bands playing stirring music. To top the day off my father bought me a soft whip ice cream covered in strawberry syrup...with a flake. That day I learnt money cannot replace a memorable moment spent between a father and their son.
R.I.P dad ♥️♥️♥️