Tributes have been paid to a former Padstow lifeboat man who will be remembered for his passion, humour and genuine interest in his local lifeboat station and its crews. George Phillips passed away peacefully at Launceston Hospital on December 18, 2024, at the age of 93.
From 1990 to 2001, George served as Honorary Secretary of the Padstow Lifeboat, moving to the role of Honorary Station Archivist – a role which gave him great pleasure – for a further 11 years before his retirement from lifeboat service in 2012 at the age of 81.
A keen golfer, following 41 years as a ground engineer for British Airways, George took early retirement to pursue his passion for the sport with memberships at Trevose and St Enodoc Golf Clubs.
In a tribute to George, his family said: “Beloved husband of Rita, much loved dad of Simon and Sarah, treasured grandfather ‘Poppy’ of Charlie, George was a friend to many and a true gentleman.”
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His friends at Padstow Lifeboat station added: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our old friend George Phillips. His humour and genuine interest in the lifeboat and its crew will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this deeply sad time.”
A celebration of George’s life will be held at St Petroc’s Church in Padstow on Friday January 17 at 3pm, after a private cremation. Family flowers only but donations can be made to Padstow Lifeboat Crew Fund and The League of Friends of Launceston Hospital via the Memory Giving website, by retiring collection or sent c/o R. J. Bray & Son, Funeral Directors (cheques made payable to R. J. Bray Donation Account), Egloshayle Road, Wadebridge, PL27 6AD. Tel: 01208 812626.
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