Condolences provide comfort to Banbury folk hero George Parish's family

'˜The perfect father, a loving, generous husband and an inspiring and hugely respected community leader' is how George Parish has been described by his son, Keith.
MHBG... George Parish, Horton Hospital heroMHBG... George Parish, Horton Hospital hero
MHBG... George Parish, Horton Hospital hero

George’s family said this week that knowing the high regard in which he was held is a source of pride and great comfort in their loss.

“We are very proud of his achievements. He would do anything for anybody, he was selfless and always put others before himself,” said a statement from son John, daughter-in-law Maria and granddaughter Rosie.

“His passing has left a huge hole in our lives. His proudest moment was meeting the Queen when she visited Banbury and going to a garden party at Buckingham Palace.

Councillor George ParishCouncillor George Parish
Councillor George Parish

“We are humbled by all of the well wishers for all of their kind comments.

“We have taken time to read all of them and are comforted by the love the people of Banbury have for him. We shall miss him massively.”

George’s brother, Phil, said: “Our George is at peace, gone but never to be forgotten.

“Heaven will be a better place now you’re there. Rest in peace Georgie, our Dave, our Phil and of course our Jane.”

Artist and former GP Roger Shapley painted a portrait of George Parish in a 'Save the Horton' t-shirt, for an exhibition at Chippy Theatre. 091013E-B551Artist and former GP Roger Shapley painted a portrait of George Parish in a 'Save the Horton' t-shirt, for an exhibition at Chippy Theatre. 091013E-B551
Artist and former GP Roger Shapley painted a portrait of George Parish in a 'Save the Horton' t-shirt, for an exhibition at Chippy Theatre. 091013E-B551

Dr Peter Fisher, retired Horton consultant and member of Keep the Horton General (KTHG) said: “People throughout the area will be saddened to hear of the death of George Parish. He served the community in so many ways over the years, but it is probably his tireless efforts on behalf of the Horton General Hospital for which he will best be remembered.

“His work was tireless and inspirational but perhaps his greatest strength was his ability to get on with everybody and the description ‘man of the people’ fitted him perfectly.

“Unfortunately he was unable to take part in the campaign against the more far-reaching threats we now face but he would have been with us in spirit and his memory will continue to inspire us.”

Charlotte Bird of KTHG said: “George was an extraordinary human being whose only motivation was the betterment of his fellow man. He was utterly selfless.

Councillor George ParishCouncillor George Parish
Councillor George Parish

“He could also rock ‘n’ roll like a pro – as I found out on the dance floor at GF Social Club.”

A Book of Remembrance has been opened by Banbury Town Council.

Those who wish to sign it may do so at Banbury Town Hall. It will be placed at the funeral for people’s entries and taken back to the town hall for a week afterwards and then presented to the Parish family.

Related topics: