John Alfred Hurst (18 Mar 1943 - 24 Aug 2023)

In loving memory of John Alfred Hurst who sadly passed away on 24th August 2023, a wonderful dad and grandad and friend.

John Alfred Hurst was born in March 1943 to his beloved parents, Milly and John.

John attended Boutcher Primary School then went to Bacon Secondary School in Bermondsey. John used to enjoy boxing with the school and also freshwater fishing.

John learned to drive as early as he could and often drove the family to Bracklesham Bay, Ramsgate and hopping. He met the love of his life in September 1963 which was the start of a long and happy future together as in September 1967, they were married at St James’ Church, Bermondsey.

They moved to a house in Southwark Park Road, living upstairs to start their married life together. On the 2nd September 1968, they became proud parents to their daughter, Denise. They moved to Abbey Wood in 1973 and then to Erith in 1980.

John worked for Akroyd and Smithers in the City as an IT Manager, where he made lots of life long friends. Most of the memories refer to John as a legend, that he certainly was. So kind, generous and caring.

In June 1992, Denise and Mark were married. John was a very proud dad walking Denise up the aisle.

In August 1994, John and Kathy became proud grandparents to Jack and when John got made redundant in 1995, John became Jack’s childminder. In May 1999, John and Kathy became proud grandparents to Alice. John and Kathy were so proud of both of them and loved them both unconditionally. John loved spending time with them.

John always looked forward to his holidays. They had some lovely holidays both abroad and in the UK with the family. Lots of happy memories.

John and Kathy have spent over 30 years holidaying in Turkey, which had become their second home. In 2011 whilst on holiday, they bought a beautiful villa and had some lovely holidays there. The have met so many lovely people who have become special friends.

On the 30th September 2017, John and Kathy celebrated their Golden Wedding Anniversary, they had a lovely day.

Sadly in October 2017 John lost the love of his life, his beloved wife Kathy. Such a shock and so unexpected. Dad had lost his soul mate and missed her terribly.

John continued to go on holiday to Turkey, but John’s health started to decline, sadly his last holiday in Turkey was in June 2022.

In March 2023, John celebrated his 80th birthday with a surprise family meal. He really enjoyed his day.

In August 2023 John had a fall at home and was admitted to hospital. Unfortunately he contracted pneumonia and sadly passed away peacefully with all his family at his bedside.

We take comfort that he is now with his beloved Kathy. We will love and will miss you always. You were the King of the Dads.