R.I.P Dear Patrick Lethaby

Patrick was a remarkable man. A man of kindness. A man of vision. A man of humour. A man of wisdom. A man who believed literally everything could be sold in a charity shop! And a man who inspired generations of people to join Team Oasis over 3 decades. 

Our thoughts and prayers are with his partner Colin and his sister in law Linda Simpson who cared for Patrick like angels. 

RIP dear Patrick. We promise to honour your vision, values and legacy.

Everyone is welcome to attend The Celebration of Patrick’s Life Service on Thursday 13^th September 2018 at 12pm midday at the Salvation Army Hall, 9 Ram Street, London SW18 1TJ.  Patrick particularly wanted the service to be held here, but the capacity of the hall is not huge, so please be prepared to stand if you are able.  Patrick’s coffin will be arriving at the hall the evening before and there will be opportunity for those who wish to spend some time with him from 6pm to 8pm and from 11am before the service the following day for prayers and reflection. Patrick will be delighted by the idea of lying in state!

The committal will be at the Lambeth Crematorium, 29 Blackshaw Road, London SW17 0DH at 15:30. 

As per Patrick’s wishes, his partner Colin has hired the Civic Suite at Wandsworth Town Hall from 14:30 for an afternoon ‘tea party’ in cheerful celebration of Patrick’s life for those not attending the committal.  You may join us at this stage also. Patrick loved the sense of occasion at the Town Hall, so this feels a fitting place to say good bye. This is an opportunity for those that wish to remember Patrick, make a tribute, sign a Memory Book and generally reminisce with friends and colleagues.  As it is during working hours, the car park is not available so, if you are driving, please park either in Southside or in the surrounding roads. 

The day will be hard for us all, but Patrick wants a bright and cheerful atmosphere in acknowledgement that he has gone to a better place without pain, sorrow or distress.  Dress code for the day is anything comfortable, but no black unless it is leather please.  Please feel free to wear red or white ribbons or the rainbow colours. 

Arrangements for flowers:  Patrick has asked for no wreaths – a waste of money!  Please send cut flowers only.  His preferred florist is Doris the Florist, 969 Garratt Lane, SW17 0LW (020 8672 3571).  The flowers can either be brought to the Salvation Army Hall the evening before or on the day in person or delivered to Eversheds Funeral Service, 120 Wandsworth High Street, SW18 4JP (020 8874 1781).  Flowers will not be left at Lambeth Crematorium, but distributed to those present.  Some flowers will be left in the Salvation Army Hall. 

If you prefer, you may send a donation in lieu of flowers either via Eversheds or in person on the day.  Cheques should be made payable to Wandsworth Salvation Army HIV/AIDS Community Fund. 

If you are able, please let Gill know if you are going to attend all or part of the celebration so we can manage catering, space etc.  If you would like to say a few words at the tea party, please get in touch with Gill.  Obviously, you may also make a decision on the day. [email protected]