A message from William's son, Charles Cox.

I write with sadness to advise you that former pupil, William Benjamin Cox born 1934, passed away on 14/01/2025 aged 90 years. His death was as a result of Alzheimer's disease. Bill, always remembered fondly his time at the school, and in particular the staff who acted as his family while he was boarding.  

Whilst at School in Devon, he was one of a number of pupils who auditioned for the role in the opening scenes of the film 'A matter of life and death' of the pan pipe playing boy.

Bill, after leaving the school went to serve as a gunner with the Royal Artillery, before serving as a 'trimmer' in the engine rooms of the Queen Elizabeth & Queen Mary. Later employment included being a goods-yard shunter engine driver and latterly for many years, a carpenter.

He leaves behind his widow, Kathleen (former Corporal WAC), his two children; Charles and Louise, 7 grand-children and 2 great-grandchildren.

His funeral is being held on 20th February 2025 at Portchester Crematorium, near Portsmouth.