Paul Wayte (28 Jan 1963 - 22 Sep 2020)

I've only just found out this sad news because of a conversation with David Walker, who pointed me here. I last saw Paul at his mother's funeral, but sadly wasn't able to keep in touch with him, and I've also lost touch with Liz, so if you're reading this Liz, please accept my very belated condolences :-(
Regards, David

Many nights out in the early days at IBM.
All I can think of is that wonderful laugh, still brings a smile.

Liz, apologies for a very late message - I only just heard this sad news. I remember when Paul joined the Forest of Needwood as he was “attached” to me by the teacher (presumably it’s called “buddying” or similar today!). I thought it an odd choice as I was still a relative newcomer myself. I couldn’t believe what a breath of fresh air Paul was and I spent many days in and around your parents’ vicarage (probably around 1975-ish?), marvelling at how naughty and exciting a quiet softly spoken friend like Paul could be! He was every bit as daring as I secretly wanted to be. Wonderful character and I wish I hadn’t lost touch with impending adulthood. My great condolences for your loss. PS I don’t know if you recall but my first wife, Paula (Scott) and I bumped into you in a Lebanese restaurant in HKG around 1990 or so. Take care, Andy x

This is very sad news. I wish strength to his family and friends. I was at school with Paul and was in awe of his witty clever banter. I’ll not forget backers from The Acorn to Three Horseshoes in a hurry either. Rest in power Paul. Gill

I was very sorry to hear the news about Paul. We were friends for a long time whilst working at IBM, many lunches discussing anything and everything and many social nights up and down Albert Road in Southsea. Also went on skiing holidays with friends of his, one such in the photo. He was just such a gentle soul, with also a devilment about him sometimes. Whilst moving house one time, I was a lodger in his home and was amazed at this man who would solve very complex maths calculations on bits of paper around the house, just for fun. He was always challenging his brain, and others, to stretch that little bit further. Just remarkable. Such a loss so young, condolences to his family, especially his sister Elizabeth whom he adored.

Paul Wayte was a kind, funny and very intelligent man (except when it came to playing cards). I am honoured to be able to call him a friend. Cup Final parties will never be the same again. Rest in peace Paul.

I was a good friend of Paul for many years, growing up together in Stretton.

I can remember the Wayte family first moving in to the Vicarage and being introduced to Paul I think by Gary Ford.

Paul was full of wit and fun and mischief. He was great to be around and our friendship lasted. I last saw him about a year ago with Liz and Ed (Edwards) on a rare trip for him back to the midlands.

Feels really sad to have lost him so young. I am so sorry for Liz’s loss and for all those that love him.

Steve

I was friends with Paul at the Forest of Needwood. In the 6th form he would give me a lift to school on the back of his bike. Paul with his 'full face' and me with my climbing helmet and rucksack stuffed with our books. Not only was he an exceptional rider but also a good footballer and a very talented pianist. I am pleased that I knew Paul but his passing reminds us of the fragility of life and the importance of living our lives to the full. It would appear that Paul did that. To those close to Paul I pass on my heartfelt condolences but understand that words cannot replace a man such as Paul, who has been taken far too early. Rest in Peace, Paul.

Fond memories of Paul from school. Condolences to his family. RIP

I knew Paul since the late 80's through various Kings socials and ski tours. I was particularly grateful to him years ago when my daughter was diagnosed with diabetes. He was very supportive and offered great advice from his personal experience. I do remember though, that he often didn't follow his own sensible advice but hey you could never call Paul a cautious man. His dry wit would always make me laugh and he was kind enough to laugh at my jokes. RIP Mate.

So many great memories with Paul, mainly from our school years. Loved our motorbikes, Paul had a no fear but very competent style of riding. We spent a lot of time riding his dad's old moped on the disused railway line in Stretton and a lot of time repairing it too. On a couple of occasions our petrol money came from his dad, Bob for helping out in the choir for a Saturday wedding.
We both loved our music too, many hours playing vinyl in the lovely back room at the Vicarage.
Paul was a great pianist, took me by surprise when I first heard him play. We were asked to help a guy called Chris make a short film around the village of Stretton and in the Church hall. David Halliday was with us too. He filmed Paul playing and singing and it was fabulous. I never did see the finished film but it would be a lovely reminder.
A great friend for many years, albeit from a distance in recent times.
Gone far too soon, we will certainly miss you buddy, thoughts and love with your family and many other friends xx

I deeply appreciate the Wayte family. Bob and Angela (Paul's parents) had a great impact on my life. Growing up in Stretton, attending St. Mary's Church, sharing senior school classes with Paul, and being the same age, I have very fond memories of him. He was always bright, inclusive, caring and thoughtful. His love and joy were infectious. I am so sorry that he is gone from us, but certain we shall share a great reunion one day. I know he trusted in the Lord! Sending love and blessings to Liz and all of Paul's remaining family and friends.

Dearest Wayte family
I send you my heartfelt sympathy and condolences after hearing Paul's untimely passing away.
I had the honour and privilege of knowing Paul through David Hunter and all his Uni chums.
I have the most wonderful memories of his wit humour and zest for life.He was a great travelling companion too and in 1987 Paul,Dave Hunter and I travelled to the USA and shared many a happy laughing mile driving Coast to coast.
His lovely smile and amazing eyes and being such a kind and wonderful man will stay with me always.

So sorry for your loss
Phil (Sparky) Sparks

Dear Paul RIP x

Paul Wayte was a man of few words, he was cheeky, funny and moody everything a good human should be! Paul was also a deep thinker and his actions and animated mannerisms spoke volumes about what he truly believed. He was a friend and the times that we shared together were always extremely fun and special, with lots of laughs and occasionally a hint of drama. He could change his mind at flick of a switch; on one occasion in Pamplona he arrived a vegetarian and left a carnivore. Pauls unpredictability was always a great quality and one we remember with fondness and laughs. Paul was one of the worlds good people and we are truly glad that we shared our time on Earth together. RIP sweet man! XXX

I first met Paul at King's in the early eighties and got to know him better over the subsequent years. I knew him as an unenthusiastic footballer, a great conversationalist often taking a contrary view to make his point, a man with a pretty dry sense of humour and excellent company if you just needed a beer and a chat. Many little things remind me of Paul, whether it is picking him up outside Club Boom in Montgenevre, taking the scariest, probably safest, but certainly quickest journey from East Dulwich to Central London on the back of his bike or playing the piano beautifully at my wedding they are all great memories.

My South African friends tell me that you should never mourn a death but rather celebrate a life. I shall do that for Paul. Like many others, I will raise a glass to him and send my best wishes for whatever lies ahead on his forthcoming journey. Cheers matey, until the next time.