Harwich RNLI pays tribute to much-loved crew member John Teatheredge
On Saturday 26 December 2020, John Teatheredge, a much-loved crew member at Harwich RNLI, sadly passed away from complications following an operation for a heart condition.
John, 63, was second Coxswain at the lifeboat station and he devoted his life to saving others at sea. He joined the crew at the age of 20 and remained with the charity for 43 years.
The team at Harwich RNLI has shared a heartfelt tribute in memory of John:
‘Everyone is devastated at the loss of our friend and fellow crew member. John was an integral, much-loved and respected part of our crew and he will be greatly missed by everyone linked to our station.
‘Our thoughts are with John’s family and friends at this difficult time and the station is rallying together to offer its support as everyone comes to terms with his loss.’
Walton and Frinton RNLI added: ‘John, it was an honour to serve with you, you were always welcoming, kind-hearted and pleased to see us whenever the opportunity arose.
‘Your smile will be missed, along with your knowledge of the sea, but we hope for fair winds and calm seas.’
John’s funeral will take place on Wednesday 20 January, with the cortege pausing by Harwich Lifeboat Station at 1:50pm. This will be followed by a private service at Weeley Crematorium.
His family have requested flowers only, but for any donations if desired, to go to 'Harwich RNLI Lifeboat Station' and 'Barts Charity', c/o Harwich and Dovercourt Independent Funeral Service, 8 Oakley Road, Dovercourt, CO12 4QR (01255) 553398.
A celebration of John’s life will take place at a future date.
RNLI Picture caption
The photograph shows John Teatheredge. Credit RNLI.
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The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.
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