THE DAUGHTER of a Pershore Navy veteran has thanked the local community for their support and kindness in the week her father was laid to rest.
Trudy Burge expressed her thanks after the funeral of Ted Annis, chairman of the Pershore and District Royal Naval Association (RNA), was held at Pershore Abbey on Tuesday (November 18)
The former town councillor, who served in the Royal Navy during the Suez crisis in the 1950s, died on Monday, November 10 at Worcestershire Royal Hospital after a long illness, aged 77.
Members of the Royal British Legion and Royal Naval Association formed a guard of honour outside the abbey to welcome the coffin into the historic venue.
Canon Richard Etheridge, the RNA’s Chaplain, led the service which including readings and the Last Post by Alice Bull, head girl at Pershore High School.
RNA members from across the region including National Chairman Chris Dovey, the Mayor of Pershore Coun Tony Rowley, Pershore Town Councillors and members of Royal British Legion were among the mourners.
“My mum Margaret, sister Wendy and I are both overwhelmed and humbled by the strength of love and support that we have received from our community during this sad time.” Trudy said.
“We have received more than 200 cards of condolence along with hundreds of messages of support via social media and each one has brought us comfort.
“To see the abbey so packed was just breath taking and you can’t ask for more than that when your time comes.
“I loved my dad dearly and we worked well as a team over the past 15 years to raise so much money for local charities and commemorate the Armed Forces veterans and fallen in our town.
“It is ironically quite fitting dad died during the Remembrance period because I love poppies and now each time I wear one, I
shall think of him.
“Dad has struggled for so many years with ill health and other difficulties but now he’s at peace. “Neither of us are saints and
we don’t pretend to be but we have huge hearts and strong determination.
“I made a vow to him that I would continue his good work and that I will do to the best of my ability and health.” she added.
Photo by Marcus Mingins 4714025MMR4
Photo by Marcus Mingins 4714025MMR6
Photo by Marcus Mingins 4714025MMR3
Photo by Marcus Mingins 4714025MMR1
The last photo of Ted Annis taken at the poppy party with daughter Trudy and wife Margaret. Picture supplied by Trudy Burge
