In loving memory of John Myers who sadly passed away on 27th August 2020:
John Richard Myers, known as ‘JR’ to many, aged 75 of Wimborne Dorset, passed away on 27th August 2020 after losing his battle with mesothelioma cancer. He died peacefully at home with his wife Jacqui by his side and family members close by.
John was born in Dover on 29 May 1945. Following early life in Dover, he moved with his family to Billingham on Teesside in the North-East. Initially qualifying as an engineering draftsman, he followed his passion for flying and joined the Royal Air Force as a pilot in 1969. On graduating from jet training, he embarked on a Cold War career on the Buccaneer Strike Force, initially based in RAF Laarbruch, Germany then at RAF Honington, Suffolk where he became a Flying Instructor. The finale of his time on the Buccaneers came in the late 70’s when he became the Buccaneer Solo Display pilot. He continued his display flying when in 1980 he was selected to join the Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team – The Red Arrows, flying initially as ‘Red 9’, then ‘Red 3’ and becoming Deputy Leader. John travelled with the team displaying in front of thousands of onlookers across the UK and Europe. He was fortunate enough to also conduct tours of both the Middle East and North America whilst on the team.
At the end of his 3 year tour with the ‘Reds’, John changed direction in his flying career, becoming a civilian pilot with Flight Refuelling Ltd, which became FR Aviation and then Cobham. Initially flying ex-military Hunter jets, he soon converted to the Falcon 20 biz-jet and introduced this fleet to Bournemouth Airport, becoming a test pilot in order to conduct their acceptance flights in the USA. The role of the Falcon 20 was to provide a multitude of support roles for the Armed Forces both at home and overseas; a role he was well versed in. Progressing quickly through the company, he soon became Chief Pilot and then Director of Flight Operations.
Following early retirement in 2003, John fulfilled his lifelong dream of sailing. This time not just in Poole Harbour but on a trans-Atlantic crossing from Cape Town to the Caribbean joined by his youngest son on a catamaran he had commissioned and built in South Africa. Several years followed of sailing holidays around the Caribbean and eastern seaboard of the USA for family and friends onboard “Dream Catcher”.
John’s love of cars, and particularly SAAB cars was ever present throughout his life. Owning over 27 SAABs throughout his life, there was always at least one classic SAAB in the family. His faithful, bright red (actually Red Arrows red) SAAB 96 V4 rally car was driven competitively for many years, then more recently displayed at Classic Car shows, and it is still owned by the family.
Keen to support local ventures, John was heavily involved in the development of the Wimborne Priest’s House Museum along with local and national politics within UKIP. He was also a stalwart supporter of the dog rescue charity, Waggy Tails, and was often see around town collecting donations accompanied by his rescue whippet. He also enjoyed debates with the Bournemouth Speakers Club and remained flying, but this time rooted to the ground with Dorset Model Flying Club.
John is survived by his wife Jacqui and his children, twins Hedley and Hayley and youngest son Kirk and 6 grandchildren. A strong family man, he was a loving husband, inspiring father and cuddly Grandpa and will be missed greatly by his family and many friends.
So very sorry to hear of John's passing. I knew him at Stockton/Billingham Technical College in the early 1960s. A really nice, well balanced guy, always a pleasant, friendly and helpful presence. It was good to have known him. In later years I would hear snippets regarding John's flying career and it was no surprise to hear of his achievements.
Condolences to John's family,
R.I.P John,
David Whittaker.
A truly lovely gentleman - who helped to raise so much for his local animal rescue. Thank you for all that you did John and RIP x
A true gentleman and a fantastic pilot. Flew many hours with JR as his Lodie on freight and pax runs at FR aviation. an honor to have known and worked with him.
I was privileged to work with John for the last 10 years of my aviation career, having spent a total of about 45 years in the industry. As an engineer and lifelong aviation nut I was delighted to always spend time with John, exchanging experiences and flying stories. He was one of the most enthusiastic aviation personnel I have ever worked with. Always positive and full of enthusiasm for the aviation world we both loved. I shall miss his great attitude to life and his company by the bar!
We're all proud to have known you. What a great success you made of your life. Ivor Gibbs
Bob an I are so sorry to hear of John’s passing the times we got to meet with him he was such a nice man and Alex and LYNN enjoyed traveling with him and Jackie. I know that he will really be missed!!
John was instrumental in launching my flying career. He pushed me to apply for a Scholarship at FRA, which I won and this launched my flying career. John always pushed me to aim higher his guidance and wisdom will be with me forever. RIP John.
In memory of a loyal and trusted friend of the Cobham family. May he rest in peace.
Jacqui is my cousin and I have known John from the time he was her boyfriend. He was a great listener and I enjoyed wonderful conversations with John having firm views on most subjects. John never changed he was always very charming and delightful company. Gordon and I will miss you.
The best friend I ever had . The last few years sadly I was very remiss in communication with my best friends . JR will be sadly missed by all that were fortunate enough to know him. Rest in peace Myers think of you all the time . Kenner’s
With lots of lovely memories built up over the last 40 years! xx
We were delighted to renew our friendship with John and Jacqui through the 5(RAF) Course reunions. In memory of a first class pilot and friend.
It has been an honour to renew our friendships at Linton and Haxby through the 5(RAF) Course reunions. We send Jacqui and family our love.
So sorry to hear this sad news lots of good memories working with John. Sending our
condolences to you all
Mike & Angie Deacon
Sending love to Jacqui, Hedley, Hayley, Kirk and all the family x
Sending love to Jacqui, Hedley, Hayley, Kirk & all the family x
Hello Aunty Peggy and Uncle Jack 💘
Fond memories of JR from our time with the Reds. Our best to Jacqui and family.
Rgds, Gordon & Mary Nisbet
I was privileged to be able to call John a friend. I'll miss his wonderful banter and his world of information about aviation. Most of all I'll miss his genuine friendship and will always remember it. RIP, my friend
John was a very special cousin with a ready smile and great sense of humour. He conspired with Pam, another special cousin, to make my wedding day extra special by getting together with two of his team to fly over the church after the ceremony and give us all a surprise Red Arrows fly past. He will be always in my heart. Sleep peacefully.
John had special memories of you cousin Sheila. He's left a lot of footprints 🐾
With love from Dad and I
Farewell my old Squadron and Red Arrows Teammate. I enjoyed every minute of the time I spent in your company.
Wyndham
,
Fair well old friend,I will always be grateful for your outstanding support and proud of the company that we built together.
Colin Jones . MD FRA
Day out on Lake Mead
No 5 Co Re-union at The Green, Pertenhall 2015
No 5 Co Re-union at The Slaughter Inn 2014
No 5 Co Re-union at the RAF club 2013
One of our favorite pictures of John when we lived next door to them in Garboldisham. Transatlantic family friends for 40+ years! He will be forever missed!❤️
Heading home
Fundays
Buccaneer Display Pilot 1979
Red Arrows 1983
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