Eric Alan Small (7 Mar 1931 - 11 Aug 2024)

In loving memory of Eric Alan Small who sadly passed away on 11th August 2024.

Eric Alan Small was born in 1931 to Minnie and Sidney, the eldest of four children having one brother and two sisters – Brian, Gwen and Margaret. He grew up in South East London before moving to Romford. He was 8 when World War 2 broke out and became head of the household aged 11 when his father was called up to the services. He took this responsibility very seriously, and throughout his life maintained his sense of honour, dignity, and responsibility.

He left school at 14, studied at the L.C.C School of Photo-Engraving and Lithography for 2 years before doing a five-year apprenticeship in the printing industry which included 2 years national service. He had a stellar career and worked exceptionally hard, eventually becoming Managing Director of a printing company.

Growing up, he taught himself to play the saxophone and played a lot of football and cricket. He was often in the dance halls and there he met and later married Irene, his first wife in 1956 when he was 25. They had two daughters, Julie and Karen who tragically passed away from cancer aged just 50. He has four grandchildren, Louise, Sarah, Jade and Adam. After 33 years of marriage Irene sadly died of cancer.

Some years later, Eric met Chris and they married in Kenya in January 1991. Eric moved to Kent and retired in 1993. Their daughter, Amber, was born in June 1994. Eric spent a lot of time with her, taking her to dance classes and eventually teaching her to jive. He spent most of his time playing bowls, painting, playing the saxophone and travelling abroad over the next thirty years. He rarely sat still, even taking up a job invigilating exams at a local school.

In 2022, he was admitted to hospital with an infection which recurred and he spent the last 2 years in Iden Manor Nursing Home to receive the care he needed. He kept his sense of humour throughout and enjoyed various activities at the home. At the end of July, he got an infection which he was unable to fight off. Eric passed away peacefully on Sunday 11th August at the age of 93.

Eric was a supportive and loving father, husband, and grandfather, always on hand to help and listen. He had a wicked sense of humour and the kindest of hearts, making many friends through the years.

He was loved by all who knew him, and will be greatly missed.