Residents of Haddenham will share our deep sadness at the passing of Rev John Race.
John has been a familiar, smiling face in the village for many years. Older residents will recall the TV and electrical repair shop that John ran in Churchway, opposite the entrance to The Gables. Those of us who drew on his technical skills during that time will recall the friendly manner with which John always greeted and engaged with his customers – seemingly much more concerned with helping them rather than participating in a commercial transaction.
In his retirement years, John was ordained as a minister in the Church of England, a role for which his charming and loving character made him ideally suited.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Stella and her family at this difficult time.
This website will be delighted to publish any personal tributes that Haddenham residents would like to offer. Please email: haddenham.net@hotmail.com
From Neil Culver:
So very sad to hear this news. John baptised my youngest two children and always had time to ask how we were and stop for a chat. A genuinely lovely man. Our thoughts are with his family.
From Lucy McNeil:
Such a wonderful man, so gentle and had time for so many in our community. Such lovely memories of church times away on holiday, his technical expertise and his ability to bring calm to most situations. He will be greatly missed by so many.
From Di Franklin-Diane Salt:
Very sad news. It was always such a PLEASURE to do business with John....a true gentleman
From the The Ricketts family:
John was a neighbour of ours when I first moved to Haddenham. He was welcoming, cheerful, helpful and kind. When visiting his Haddenham Shop he was knowledgable and helpful and had a good after sales service helped by his son Matthew.
When our daughter was married last year she was adamant she wanted John to perform the service, someone she had know all her life. John didn't let her down, it was a lovely service.
John was a true gentleman, you'll be sorely missed
From Rev. Margot Hodson:
The Revd John Race died peacefully at home on 12th October.
John lived in Haddenham for over 50 years. During the years he ran the DCP Televisions in the village John was known for being especially helpful and kind to people. He was always happy to offer a cup of coffee and a chat and his shop was one of the friendly meeting places in the village.
John was a committed Christian and churchwarden of St Mary's church before training to be ordained in the late 1990s. After ordination, John retired from his electrical business and started a new life as a self-supporting priest.
He dedicated himself to the pastoral care of Haddenham and the surrounding villages, especially taking services in Kingsey. With some families he has supported several generations through baptisms, weddings and funerals.
John was active in Churches Together in Haddenham and led the midweek Anglican service in the Roman Catholic Church of the Holy Family. He has given support to many younger ministers coming to the village to train.
John was very much a family man, married to Stella for 53 years with four children, Katherine, Matthew, Luke and Rachel and five grandchildren. He was much loved and will be greatly missed.
