Obituary to Ray Eley 1931-2022
It is with sadness that I have to report the passing of Ray Eley on 8th January 2022 at the age of 90.
Ray was one of the founding members of Hadleigh Forum TTC in 1948, along with Roy Patten and Trevor Lidstone.
An all round sportsman and an outstanding defender, Ray achieved considerable success during the 1960’s and 1970’s twice winning the Southend Men’s Singles plus the Mens Doubles with Mike Watts and Veterans Singles three times when playing for Hockley TTC. Ray captained the Hockley “A” team, which included Mike Watts and Alan Carroll who were the league champions six times between 1968/69 and 1974/75. They later moved to Park School being joined by top junior, Andrew Bawden and won the title once more in 1977/78. Ray also achieved similar tournament success in the Basildon League. In the 1980’s, Ray rejoined Hadleigh Forum TTC and continued playing until the 2005/06 season.
A gentleman on and off the table, Ray will be fondly remembered by many of the older members of our league. Our condolences go out to his wife Ilean and all his family.
Ray’s funeral will be at Southend Crematorium on Wednesday 2nd February at 12.40pm and after at Rochford Hundred Golf Club.
Graham Farmer, Hadleigh Forum TT Club
