David Legge (Professor) (4 Apr 1936 - 7 Jun 2020)

In loving memory of David Legge who sadly died on 7th June 2020 at the age of 84. He was in hospital having been ill for several weeks.

David was born in South London on 4th April 1936, to Frances Joan & William Dudley Legge. David had a much-loved younger brother, Peter (deceased).

He left home for boarding school at an early age, though did not enjoy the experience. As an excellent student, however, he pursued an academic path after leaving school: Bachelor’s Degree; Master’s Degree; Doctorate; Professorship. He also undertook National Service, stationed at Honiton in Devon.

David’s academic career in Higher Education began as University Lecturer (Birkbeck College, London). He next took the role of Dean of Education (Huddersfield Polytechnic). After a number of happy years, he moved to become Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Staffordshire University). David also worked independently with the Open University, and several educational institutions across the world, validating degree courses.

Former President of the British Psychological Society and highly respected; during his career, David published a number of psychology books and papers.

David met his first wife Sylvia in Streatham when they were 16 years old. They were married in 1959 at the age of 23 and had two sons, Steven and Mathew.

David met his second wife Hilary at Birkbeck College. They were married in 1976, relocating from London to Huddersfield with Hilary’s daughters, Melissa and Alexandra. David & Hilary remained together until she died of Alzheimer’s in January 2017.

He was a keen sportsman. Rugby in earlier years before suffering an injury, then discovering a passion for sailing. This culminated in the ownership of a series of yachts and sailing holidays in the UK, and further afield. The years moved by and golf became a significant part of David & Hilary’s lives. As a founding member of High Leigh Park Golf Club (Knutsford, Cheshire), David’s intellect was put to good use on the Committee.

David was very regimented in his ways; a creature of habit. He prepared meticulously for everything with detailed research – never leaving anything to chance. This stood him in good stead his whole adult life and served to keep mind and wit agile. After suffering a stroke some years ago, he made a near-complete recovery through self-discipline and mental gymnastics: reciting the alphabet backwards and learning Bridge.

David had a heart of gold, which remained hidden for a number of years to his children and stepchildren, but which was clear to Hilary, his friends and his colleagues. Hilary’s diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer’s had a profound effect on the way David viewed the world. He was devoted to her care – unwavering and unstinting.

David leaves behind his two sons, Steven and Mathew; their spouses, Lisa and Tracy. His two Stepdaughters Melissa and Alexandra; their spouses Keith and John.
He was the proud Grandfather of Jamie, Chloe, Rebecca, Emma, Seb, Tasha and Ollie. David’s family extended to Australia.

David’s funeral takes place on Wednesday 24th June at Markeaton Crematorium, Derby. Unfortunately, due to current restrictions invitations cannot be extended. If you would like to make a donation in lieu of flowers, charities close to David’s heart were Alzheimer’s Society UK and Cancer Research UK.