In loving memory of David John Addison who sadly passed away on 25th April 2022.
** Please can everyone attending wear bright coloured clothing. **
David was born in Ruislip, in May 1939 just before the outbreak of the Second World War. His early childhood was spent in London with visits to his grandparents in St Osyth where the family moved to soon after the end of the war.
His early schooling was in St Osyth and then Clacton. At an early age he expressed a desire to go to boarding school, which, having won a scholarship he duly did.
At university he read Classics and followed this up with a teaching certificate. His first teaching job was in Shirebrook where he met Sheila (the art teacher) and made some life long friends. He taught Latin and RE initially diversifying into General Studies, careers and accounts as Latin disappeared from the timetable along with being in charge of timetabling.
In 1984 he took early retirement and the following year was ordained a minister in the Free Church. He had a faith from an early age and was joint founder member of the Church in the Centre (now Life Church South Mansfield) in 1974. He led the church from 1985 until 2004 but continued to be an active member preaching and leading Bible studies.
In the late 80s he and Sheila were both heavily involved with the Royal British Legion and Woodleigh Christian Care Home. Dad was chaplain and chairman for the new Bellamy Branch of the Legion and was awarded Life Membership in 2009. From 2004-2015 he was Chairman of the Festival of Remembrance Committee.
He developed a love of amateur dramatics during his time at boarding school. This continued beyond his teaching career into retirement. He performed in many plays, musicals and dramas, often directing as well as taking the lead male role. He also wrote many plays, musicals, poems and stories.
He loved cats and for most of his married life there was usually at least one cat in the home. He started with Siamese and later on would find a cat to love at the Cat and Dog Shelter.
He leaves behind his cat (who has since found a new home with their good friend round the corner), three daughters and a son, four grandsons and a great grandson.
I'm so sorry to hear of David's death, a year late. He and Sheila were like spiritual parents when I first started teaching at Shirebrook Comprehensive. They took me under their wing, I joined their Bible Study group and generally kept a kindly eye on me. I was able to watch Sheila's funeral online. Sorry to have missed David's. My condolences to Carol, Judith, Peter and Jane. X
Mr Addison was my Latin teacher. One day he was telling us the story of Romulus and Remus, when he leaned too far back in his chair and fell over backwards. All we could see were his feet sticking up over the desk. He promptly got back upright and said " o me miserum", and carried on with the story!!
A very lovely man. Goodbye Sir.
Thank you for your kind words and memory, another one to make us smile.
David Addison was a lovely man. He was my Latin teacher at Shirebrook and managed to help me get a good grade in O level. Also met him several times at school reunions. RIP sir.
Thank you for your kind words. He was very proud of his time at Shirebrook
I remember Mr Addison as my latin teacher at Shirebrook Grammar School and Miss McCleod as art teacher. She always kept us late in art so we were always late to his latin class which followed on. Of course we later realised this was done intentionally as a joke.
They were both exceptional teachers and I will always remember them affection and respect.
Thank you for your kind words and memories. You've made me smile at that recollection of mum!
Sorry I did not attend David's Funeral as I did not know in time. My thoughts and prayers continue for the family. David was a lovely man and I thank God for him and his ministry. We go back to Shirebrook Comp. Christian Union and David was a big part of my faith journey. Love to all. Elaine and family. Xxx
Thank you, Elaine for your kind words.
David was a lovely man- so kind and knowledgeable with a great sense of humour. I worked with David as a school governor- we also attended Life Church.
David was so wise and gentle. I was always remember happy memories of our chats.
Love and prayers to his family xx
Thank you, Donna.
David was such an incredible man. A real inspiration to all at LIFE Church and he had such a love for God, and a deep knowledge of the Bible, which he taught from and encouraged people on a regular basis. We will miss him, but we have such nice memories and know that he is at peace now
David and Sheila were wonderful and supportive friends to Woodleigh Christian Care Home and to us for the 20 years we were entrusted with its care. They were always there at times of worship and events and David was an invaluable guide and help on the leadership team of the Friends of Woodleigh. As a member of the choir (the Woodleigh Warblers) he was much appreciated and his poetry was a source of delight and reflection. We miss them both and were so thrilled and appreciative when David was able to come to our retirement ‘do’ on 29th March and, as poorly as he was, gave an uplifting and inspiring speech which we will remember for ever. We pray for the whole family at this time.
Thank you John and Gail, Woodleigh was such a huge part of their lives for so long -we are so grateful you were able to accommodate them both when they needed care and looked after them both so well. Your visits always brightened their days, and he thoroughly enjoyed your retirement 'do'! - thank you both.
It has been a privilege to have known David and his wife Sheila for 50 years. I have really appreciated their friendship and support. he was very knowledgeable and wise. As far as I have observed David has always put God God first in his life. Also of course he appreciated and loved his family. I also was involved in Woodleigh Christian care home and very much appreciated David and Sheila's involvement. I pray for all the family for comfort and strength in this time of grieving. Godbless you all.
Thank you Jean - there aren't enough words to express our (and Misty's) gratitude for all you have done for mum and dad over the years.
Rest in Peace David
Thank you both. x
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