Patrick 'Pat' Philip Thrale (16 Mar 1935 - 13 Jan 2026)

In loving memory of Patrick Philip Thrale (1935–2026).

Patrick, known to all as Pat, aged 90, passed away at home on 13th January 2026, surrounded by his loving family.

Pat was born in East Ham on 16th March 1935 to his parents, Beatrice and Thomas. The family moved to Stanmore in 1942 and later, in 1944, settled in Southview Drive, Westcliff.

He attended Chalkwell School, followed by Fairfax High School, where he was a keen member of both the football and cricket teams.

At the age of 15, Pat left school and began his working life as a baker. In July 1953, he joined the Army for his two years of National Service. After completing his training, he was stationed in Hildesheim, Germany.

Learning to drive during his time in the Army opened many doors, and Pat went on to work in various roles within the motor trade, as well as spending a short time as an estate agent. He later found his long-term career, spending 28 years as an amusement machine service manager.

Pat had a lifelong love of sport, particularly tennis and golf. He was a member of Leigh Tennis Club, Westcliff Lawn Tennis Club, and several golf clubs, most notably The Warren in Danbury. Golf and tennis remained constant passions throughout his life.

From an early age, Pat developed a deep appreciation for music across a wide range of genres, including big band, Latin, Brazilian and jazz. He greatly enjoyed attending live concerts and fondly recalled seeing the legendary Nat King Cole in the early 1960s, among many other musical greats.

In 1975, Pat purchased his first home in Eastwood. Five years later, he married Wendy at Southend Registry Office on 25th October 1980. He booked a hotel for the honeymoon in Portugal, which by no coincidence had a golf course on site!

Pat became a proud father to his daughter Keely in February 1982, followed by his son Daniel in May 1985. The day before Daniel’s first birthday, the family moved to Hadleigh. Pat was immensely proud of his children and later of his grandchildren: Noah, Olivia, Phoenix and Haven.

Pat will be remembered for his sporting ability, warm sense of humour and the unmistakable twinkle in his eye. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Pat’s funeral will be held on Thursday 26th February 2026 at 11.00am, at The West Chapel, Southend Crematorium.

In line with Pat's wishes, we have chosen to support the Gurkha Welfare Trust and Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Thank you if you are able to donate in his memory to these wonderful causes.

https://gvwhl.com/A1C1B

We hope you can join us either in person or via video link. Please contact Wendy, Keely or Daniel if you wish to watch the service online.