POPULAR Fittleworth man Reg Bushby (74) passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in St Richard's Hospital, Chichester on September 18.
A retired plumber, Reg was born in Petworth but lived in Fittleworth for many years with wife Eva, to whom he was married for 55 years.
The couple had a large family and enjoyed a huge circle of friends.
The funeral service took place in St Ma
ry's Church, Fittleworth, conducted by former Fittleworth resident the Rev Canon Peter Cole.
The church was filled to capacity with mourners of all ages, and from all walks of life. Many had to stand at the back to hear tributes paid to Reg during a moving but dignified service.
Besides family, friends and neighbours, and former colleagues from his days as a Fittleworth parish councillor, many of those who attended were associated with Fittleworth Football Club of which Reg was president.
He had been a keen footballer in his day but took up coaching after
breaking his leg.
He devoted much timeand effort to the club, helping many youngsters with training, and did a great deal of fundraising.
The Tony Lacey annual memorial match has long been held to commemorate a young Fittleworth footballer, husband and father who died from cancer.
Several years later Reg and Eva lost their 29-year-old son Jason who suffered head injuries in a tragic road accident.
Reg carried on the annual match in joint celebration of both young men, with funds raised divided equally between cancer and head injury charities.
After the funeral service a private cremation took place at Chichester, and Reg's ashes will be scattered at a later date over the grave of his son, Jason, in Fittleworth churchyard.
Donations instead of flowers have so far amounted to £520, which
will be used to provide floodlights for the football club, in accordance with Reg's wish.
Eva and the family thank all those who attended the funeral, sent condolences, and donated so generously in his memory.
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