Michael John Naylor (22 Jan 1944 - 16 Jan 2016)

In loving memory of Michael John Naylor who sadly passed away on 16th January 2016

Michael John NAYLOR. (1944 – 2016)

Mick (or Chuff) was born 22nd January 1944; the elder son of Frank & Phyllis Naylor; he was followed by younger brother Trevor, born 4½ years later.

Mick went to Hucknall Spring Street Infant & Junior Schools then on to Annie Holgate, where he developed a keen interest and considerable skills for graphic art, in particular sign writing. He left school at 16 to join Raleigh, where he worked in the wheel shop for most of the 40 years he spent there. He then moved on to work locally at Rolls Royce in Hucknall where he stayed until his retirement in 2012, aged 68. He could be seen on his bike going to work in the early morning and returning in the afternoon, regular as clockwork, in all weathers.

In his younger days, Mick’s main interests revolved around outdoor life; he loved camping and walking with his friends in Derbyshire, the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District. One of his very favourite spots was Coopers’ Campsite in Edale, just below Kinder Scout … the main attraction being the local Nags Head pub, some 50 yards from his tent! Trevor and Margaret would occasionally tag along with Mick and his pals. In those days, tents didn’t have a sewn in groundsheet and waking up, soaking wet, with 6” of snow outside (in June) still lingers in the memory.

Later on and following in his father Frank’s footsteps, Mick developed a keen interest in gardening. He eventually took over the family allotment, where he spent many hours, along with his trusty pipe, working up a suitable thirst for his regular lunchtime and evening sessions in the local hostelries; his favourite places being The Liberal Club and Seven Stars; the topic of conversation more often than not being the progress of the onion and cabbage patches and the curse of blackfly on the runner beans; and of course all the runners and riders in the 3.30 at Doncaster and what would win.

As most people who knew Mick will know he also loved horses and again, just like his father Frank, he developed a special interest in them; this related to how fit they were, how fast they could run and also how good they were at jumping fences. His love of the subject involved considerable in-depth study, often down at Ladbrokes, where he was also known to make the ‘occasional’ bet.

Mick spent much of his later years caring devotedly for his Mother Phyllis, who by the age of 98 years had become very frail. It was down to Mick’s dedicated care that Phyllis managed to spend all her years in her bungalow instead of ending her life in a care home.

Mick had a fairly simple, uncomplicated life. He had little or no interest in material possessions, travelling the world, or new technology. His life revolved around more traditional pursuits. He was always cheerful; he seemed happy and content simply living day-to-day, seldom complaining. His daily routine involved having a bet, a drink, a smoke and socialising with his many friends.

As most people will know, Mick had been ill for some time and the family would like to thank everyone who helped and supported him in his time of need, in particular Sharon, cousin Carole and her husband Alan, and Paul and family. Also, thank you everyone for attending today.