JOHN POWELL MBE

21 June 1931 – 19 April 2024

On 20th May 2024 a large contingent of Salisbury Probus members attended the funeral service for Anthony John Powell MBE held at Salisbury Cathedral.

John was an active member of the Probus Club of Salisbury for many years. He served as club President (2014-2015) and is remembered with great affection for his warmth, kindness and generosity of spirit.

John has been described as a “local treasure” and a “pillar of music” in Salisbury. Among his many achievements, John founded the St Johns Singers in 1975 and volunteered for many organisations including the International Arts Festival and the Salisbury Combined Music Societies.

At the tender age of five, John sang in his local church choir in Coombe Bissett where his father was organist. At ten years of age his choral talent was recognised and he was accepted into the cathedral choir during the war years from 1941 to 1945 where he also became head chorister.

John married the love of his life, Christine in 1955 and enjoyed a fulfilling 65 years of marriage before Christine died.

They were both loved and respected citizens and they would organise and host Christmas Wassail parties in the City Hall. By 2016 it was estimated that their parties had raised over £250,000 for over 200 charitable organisations.

In addition to his masterful musical accomplishments, John had distinguished careers in the civil service and in the army and was awarded the MBE for his services in Berlin.

Think not of me when you are sad

But think of me when you are glad

And think of all the fun we had

when you remember me

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