Tribute to Tony Tyson

Coupled with the sadness at the passing of Tony Tyson, aged 92, is a real sense of gratitude for all he contributed to the life and growth of St Mary’s.

Soon after nursing his wife through a long and painful battle with cancer, Tony experienced quite a dramatic conversion to Christ. One afternoon he sensed a compulsion to walk to the church in the village and there, as he described it, he had a wonderful encounter with God. He joined St Mary’s Church.

It was while Tony was on duty at an Open Day at St Mary’s, that the beautiful Aileen wandered into the churchyard. The gallant Tony stepped forward to be her guide and thus began a courtship which led to their happy and fulfilling marriage.

Following a marriage blessing at St Mary’s, Tony and Aileen lived at 9 Pound Street. Tony was elected to the PCC and served as Church Warden. He and others were instrumental in planning and building the new Vicarage in Dobbins Lane.

Over a number of years Tony and Aileen led Home Bible Study Group and also conducted Communion Services in Abbeyfield House and The Poplars. Behind the scenes he was always ready to welcome visitors and encourage others.

Tony spent much of his formative years in France – (see Wendover News Local Face March 2008). He used his fluency in French in the Wendover Twinning activities and in the U3A.

Tony acted a number of times with the famous Brian Rix. He was a noted Historian and also quite an expert on the computer. Tony passed away peacefully in Wycombe General Hospital on Tuesday 6 November 2012.