Eric Hewson (9 Apr 1928 - 16 Oct 2016)

In loving memory of Eric Hewson who sadly passed away on Sunday 16th October 2016, aged 88 years.
Eric will be sadly missed by his family and all who knew him.

Family flowers only, may be sent c/o John Weir Funeral Directors,
127, Watling Street, Gillingham, Kent ME7 2YY by 9:00 am on the day. Tel: 01634 855558

Eric Hewson was born in Canterbury Street in Gillingham on 9th April 1928.

Eric grew up in Gillingham and apart from the two occasions during the war, when he was evacuated to Sandwich and then to Wales, he lived in Gillingham all his life. He joined Chatham Dockyard in 1943 at the age of 15 as an apprentice shipwright and then worked in the Finance department as a work Recorder until the closure of Chatham dockyard when he retired.

Forever looking on the bright side, he enjoyed life to the full. Generous to a fault and blessed with a wide circle of friends he was ever the organiser, always at the centre of any social occasion or outing. He became a toastmaster and was awarded the highest honour that calling can give, namely being elected President of the National Society of Toastmasters. He was also a devoted member of the Masons, becoming the Worshipful Master on three occasions at the St Georges Lodge in Gillingham. He also became a Provincial Grand Lodge Officer for the Royal Arch Chapter and the Mark Masons.

Eric met Joyce in the Finance department in the dockyard and they were married for 59 years. They had a daughter Vanora who sadly passed away at the age of 25.

He had many passions throughout his life which included ballroom dancing, arranging social events, holidaying all over Europe, a member of the Strauss society and the Masons.

Eric was a very well-known figure, always impeccably dressed and usually sporting one of his many bow ties and colourful jackets. He was a true gentleman, hugely liked and respected in the locality. Immensely devoted to the causes he supported, he was also Hon President of the Rainham Ladies choir, where Joyce was a member; he never missed a meeting of the St Georges Lodge in 58 years, was a regular social member at the Conservative Club and Gillingham Golf Club and would, in fact, do anything for anybody.

He will be sadly missed by his younger brother Harry, all his nieces and nephews and his godchildren, in fact by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.