Derek Ufton (OD 1939-44) - service of thanksgiving at Canterbury Cathedral
Derek Ufton (OD 1939-44), was born on 31st May 1928 in Crayford, and passed away on 27th March 2021 aged 92 years.
COVID prevented a funeral that hundreds would have wished to attend, but a Service of Thanksgiving was held in Canterbury Cathedral on Thursday 24th February 2022 to celebrate his life. The Dean, The Very Reverend Robert Willis, presided and the Quire was crammed with several hundred guests. After the service a reception was held at the Spitfire Ground.
A stalwart one-club man, both as a professional cricketer and footballer, Derek made 149 first-class appearances as Kent’s wicketkeeper-batter between 1949 & 1962, and represented Charlton Athletic for a decade – a club he returned to as a Director for over 25 years.
Throughout the service and reinforced in many conversations at the reception there was a consistent theme: Derek was much loved by all, was a highly valued counsellor and showed empathy with all he met. He cared about people and showed that caring whenever and wherever he could. A gentleman of the highest calibre.
For Derek's obituary, click here.
