Ben Thomason (16 Sep 1932 - 9 May 2025)

In loving memory of Dr Ben Thomason who sadly passed away on May 9th, 2025, aged 92 years.

Ben was born in Didsbury on September 16th, 1932 to David and Ruby Thomason, the fifth of eight children. His early years were shaped by the war, but he was a bright little boy who enjoyed learning and, after leaving school at age 14, he started an apprenticeship at ICI in electrical engineering.

At about the same time he met Sylvia Furniss and they were married on May 24th, 1952, just before Ben’s two years of National Service in the Royal Air Force. After returning to civilian life and completing his apprenticeship, Ben felt called to Further Education as a teacher.

Ben and Sylvia moved around the country as he worked his way up the ladder from assistant lecturer at Great Yarmouth College, via Filton, Bradford and Coventry Technical Colleges, to his final position as Principal of South Kent College. Whilst in Bradford, Ben juggled his work and family life to complete a PhD, supporting his career ambitions.

Ben was always very proud of his four children, Janet and Brian, born when he was in Great Yarmouth, and Julie and Sally, born when he was in Filton. He was devastated by the loss of his wife, Sylvia, in 1985, just before the first of his ten grandchildren arrived.

Ben had two subsequent marriages, to Wendy and Chris, with whom he enjoyed dancing, socialising and travel abroad. After retiring, he was able to indulge his hobbies of sailing, fly fishing, hiking and music.

Ben moved to Beeston to be closer to Sally in 2016 and for the past four years has lived at Chetwynd House, being well supported by the caring staff.

He loved being with family and friends and was always the focal point of any gathering with a great ability to make everyone feel welcome.

Rest in Peace Ben – you will be missed.