The Choir was faced with the sad news that 74 year old baritone Bill Thomas passed away following a long term illness on Friday 14th December.  Bill joined the choir only about five years ago but in that short time, his cheerful nature, and dedication to the choir were soon noticed and he became an extremely popular member of the choir’s family.  Always with a sense of fun, looking on the bright side of life and with a joyful enthusiasm, Bill, supported by his wife Jan, was devoted to the choir and all it stands for.  Regularly at practice and concerts until his illness prevented him doing so, always willing to help to set up and clear the hall and never failing to come to all the choir’s social activities, he was the epitomy of a willing and active chorister and an example to us all.  Realising his worth and commitment, choir members elected him to join the committee but he was disappointed to be unable to take up these duties due to illness.

In particular, the baritone section will miss his sense of fun, cheery nature and poor jokes.

Our deepest sympathy and heartfelt sorrow go out to his wife Jan and all of Bill’s family at this very sad time.  He will be sorely missed by all who were privileged to know him.

The funeral service will take place at St. Mary’s Church, Caldicot on 27th December at 2-45pm.  Choristers are asked to be there at 2-15pm in blazers and greys.  Cremation will take place at the Forest of Dean Crematorium and then return to the Choir Hall for refreshments.

It was with great sadness that the choir learned of the sudden death of Bass chorister John M Jones on Wednesday 16th May 2012 at his home in Bristol.

To quote Siân, and endorsed by us all, “John was a real character; a talented,  loyal and devoted chorister.  He will be missed by us all”

Our sincere regrets and sympathy go out to his wife Joy and family at this very sad and distressing time.  Our thoughts are with you.

The choir was also saddened to learn that on the same day, ex-tenor Doug Harris also died.  Our thoughts are also with Doug and his family at this distressing time.

Our deepest sympathy and condolences go out to Steve, Gill and their family on learning of the passing away of Steve’s mother, Audrey on the 3rd September.  The following announcement is from the South Wales Argus, Wednesday 7th September 2011.

BERRY (Audrey).  On the 3rd September 2011 peacefully at the Royal Gwent Hospital, Audrey aged 85 years of Newport. Dearly beloved wife of Wilf, dearly loved mother of Stephen, loved mother-in-law of Gill, loving nanna of Angela, Richard, Katherine, Lisa and David, loving great nanny of Emma, Matthew, Jade, Ethan, Evie and Josh.

Funeral Wednesday 14th September service in St. John’s Church Maindee at 3pm prior to committal at the Gwent Crematorium at 4pm. Family flowers only please but donations in memory may be given to Caldicot Male Voice Choir. C/O Albert E Hicks Ltd., Grafton House, 1 Grafton Road, Newport NP19 0AS. (Cheques made payable to Caldicot Male Voice Choir).