THE loss of a long-serving member of a Herefordshire Royal British Legion member "leaves a void that will be deeply felt by all who knew him.
Edgar Whiteley, who died after a short illness on February 3,, was a long-serving Poppy Appeal officer and devoted caretaker, alongside wife Betty, of Bromyard's Royal British Legion branch memorial garden in Bromyard High Street.
Branch chair Jon Weighill said it is with "profound sadness" that they mark Mr Whiteley's death.
"Edgar embodied the very spirit and purpose of the Royal British Legion, his dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment to supporting the Armed Forces community made him a cornerstone of our branch and a cherished figure in the town of Bromyard. His loss leaves a void that will be felt deeply by all who knew him," he said.
"Last year marked the first time Edgar was unable to join the branch on the Remembrance Day parade due to his mobility. Yet, in true Edgar fashion, he still found a way to contribute, standing proudly at the top of the High Street, saluting the branch as we marched past on our way to church. Once inside, he quietly took his place behind me for the service, a moment that always brought a smile, as his enthusiastic rendering of the hymns was unmistakable, his voice rising above the congregation with a passion that was entirely and wonderfully his own.
"We say farewell not only to a colleague and volunteer, but to a legend of our branch, a man whose generosity of spirit and steadfast service will be remembered for years to come.
"Rest easy, Edgar your duty is done, make your way to the final RV.
"We will remember you."
Mr Whiteley was involved in many aspects of Bromyard life, with the town's Christmas lights brigade describing him as: "One of our most loyal, hard working, longest serving and nicest members. "
They added that he was the first to spot a problem, the first out to help, always out in all weathers, never complaining and had been the one to turn on the Christmas lights in 2018 - a very popular choice.
"He was the very best of men, and we will miss him so much."
He was also a founding member and chair of Bromyard Twinning Association, which started in 1979 with Athis de l'Orne in Normandy.
The association recalled: "Edgar and his wife, Betty, remained in close contact with their hosts, still regularly visiting and hosting. Until recently, Edgar was still on the committee and was particularly famous for providing a bottle of Calvados at twinning social events in Bromyard."
He was also praised by the local football club, where he was president, as a "special man", having started junior football in Bromyard many years ago, ran several teams over the years and was heavily involved in the setting up of Bromyard Town FC.
Edgar is survived by his wife and two sons.
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