http://www.greghodgkinsonfunerals.co.uk/

Garstang Funeral Home, Castle View, Bridge Street, Garstang (2025)

24/10/2025

In Loving Memory of Graham Antony Gould
25th July 1947 – 15th October 2025

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Graham Antony Gould, who left us on Wednesday 15th October 2025 after a long illness. His devoted wife Glenys and loving children Joanne, Jonathan, Alison and William were by his side at the end.

Graham was also a much-loved father-in-law to Kate, Rachel, Stuart and John, and a proud grandfather to Oliver, Evie, Daisy, Molly, Jessie, Ronnie, Oscar, and Louie.

After a successful 30 year career in banking, during which he rose to the position of Senior Bank Manager, Graham and his family settled in Garstang in 1985. He took early retirement shortly before his 50th birthday in 1997 and went on to enjoy many happy years pursuing his love of sport, travel and the theatre.

A funeral service to celebrate Graham’s life will take place at Preston Crematorium on Wednesday 5th November at 12.45pm. Following the service, the family warmly invite friends and loved ones to join them at The Royal Oak, Garstang to share memories and celebrate his life together.

Family flowers only please. Donations, if desired, may be made in Graham’s memory to support the vital work of St John’s Hospice, Lancaster c/o the funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

23/10/2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of Irene Barton on Wednesday 15th October 2025, aged 82 years.

Irene was born in Sedbergh, Yorkshire on the 26th September 1943, the first child of five to Harold and Ethel. She moved to Barnacre, Lancashire when she was around 7 years old, where she grew up with her brothers and sisters, Joan, John, Pat and David. Irene was married to Eddie and they had 3 children together, Jean, Joanne and Fiona. She was nana to Rebecca, Katie, Joseph and Rosie as well as great grandma or ‘nana Bart’ to Alex, Jake, Dylan and Abbie.

She trained as a teacher when she was in her 30’s, no mean feat whilst also bringing up a family, and became a maths teacher at Carr Hill Secondary School. Irene became interested in Computer Science, back when computers were the size of a room and got a job teaching IT at Blackpool and Fylde College, where she eventually became head of IT.

Irene’s beliefs and strong moral code were what led her to be a supporter and active member of the Labour Party. She travelled to London on several occasions to participate in marches and demonstrations. She worked closely with local MP’s such as Cat Smith and Hilton Dawson, supporting their team with her IT expertise and campaigning alongside them during elections.

Irene didn’t stop at politics in her mission to make the world a better place. She has been involved with numerous charities over the years. Irene spent many Saturdays manning stalls on Garstang high street with her friends, fundraising for various charities including homeless charities and Christmas shoeboxes for children. Irene supported several international humanitarian causes, raising funds for charities such as Médecins Sans Frontières and charities that support refugees.

Irene was always busy and managed to find time for hobbies. As well as being a keen fell walker in her younger years, she attended Art classes, Bridge Club and was a member of the Garstang Community choir with her sisters Joan and Pat. When she was younger, she also played darts for the Kings Arms in Garstang.

Irene loved to travel and has been to many interesting places around the globe, such as China, India, Uzbekistan and New Zealand, where she witnessed the Māori perform the Haka, and Africa where she danced with the locals on her birthday and cruised down the river Nile. Her zest for travel has inspired her granddaughter Katie to follow in her footsteps and have adventures of her own.

Irene was an inspiration and her morals and drive to help and support others will continue to be passed down the generations. The world will be a poorer place without Irene, but she definitely made an impact while she was here.

Following a private cremation, the family would like to extend a kind invitation to family and friends to join them at The Wyrebank, The Moorings, Garstang, PR3 1PG, on the 5th November at 1.00pm, for refreshments and an opportunity to share memories and celebrate Irene’s life.

Instead of flowers we would welcome donations to MSF (Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders) in Irenes memory.

Donate to MSF UK (Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders) | MSF UK

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

17/10/2025

In Loving Memory Gillian Florence Sanderson
28th October 1949 – 11th October 2025

It is with great sadness that the family of Gillian Florence Sanderson announce that she passed away peacefully at home on Saturday 11th October, aged 75 years.

Gillian was a devoted sister to Howard and Nigel, a loving mother to Peter and Emily, and a proud grandmother to Tom, Will, Mila and Lucy. Known locally for her warmth, generosity, and cheeky sense of humour, she was a cherished friend to many and a true pillar of her community.

A dedicated maths teacher, Gillian had a remarkable gift for encouragement. She famously believed anyone with the slightest interest could achieve their GCSE C grade and more. Beyond the classroom, she shone on stage with the Fulwood Hall Players, both as a keen amateur actress and a talented pantomime producer, bringing joy and laughter to countless performances.

Family was always at the heart of her life. In later years, she found joy in tracing family histories and testing her knowledge at pub quizzes. She loved to laugh, to give and to quietly take care of others. There was nothing she wouldn’t do for those she loved.

She will be remembered with great affection, gratitude and enduring admiration.

A service of Thanksgiving and Remembrance will take place at The Parish Church of St. John Baptist, Broughton on Friday 31st October at 1.00pm. Following the service, the family extend a kind invitation to join them at Haighton Manor for refreshments, and to continue celebrating Gillian’s life.

Family flowers only please. Donations if desired can be given in memory of Gillian to help support the vital work of St. Catherines Hospice c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

02/10/2025

In Loving Memory of Alan Geoffrey Marsh
1st August 1938 – 18th September 2025

It is with deep sadness we have been asked to announce and share the news that Alan Marsh died on Thursday 18th September in Meadowcroft Care Home, Garstang, aged 87 years.

Alan was the beloved husband of the late Christine Marsh and a much-loved family man. He was a proud and caring father to Paul, Christopher, Jason and Charlotte, and a cherished Grandad to his ten grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense joy.

Fondly remembered by all who knew him, Alan will be greatly missed for his warmth, humour and unwavering love for his family.

A true sportsman at heart, Alan’s passion for rugby defined much of his life. He dedicated over 20 years to the game, playing for Preston Grasshoppers and Lancashire throughout the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. Known as a “sports addict,” his love of the game and competitive spirit were matched only by his loyalty and camaraderie both on and off the field.

Alan leaves behind a legacy of love, strength and sporting passion. His memory will live on through his family, friends and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

His funeral service will take place at Preston Crematorium on Friday 10th October at 12.45pm. Following the service, you are invited to join the family at Preston Grasshoppers RFC for refreshments and to continue sharing stories, memories and celebrating Alan’s life

Family flowers only please. Donations if desired can be made in memory of Alan to help support the work of Trinity Hospice, Bispham c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

01/10/2025

In Loving Memory of Brenda Beatson
31st March 1938 – 21st September 2025

It is with deep sadness we have been asked to announce and share the news that Brenda passed away peacefully at home, with her loving partner by her side on Sunday 21st September. She was 87 years old.

Brenda will be remembered with love by all who knew her.

Her funeral will take place at The Parish Church of St. Thomas’ Garstang on Wednesday 8th October at 11.30am followed with a private committal at Preston Crematorium.

Family flowers only please. Donations are being accepted in memory of Brenda to help support the vital work of ‘Hospice at Home Team’ from St. John’s Hospice, Lancaster c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

24/09/2025

In Loving Memory of Mavis Jolly
24th May 1944 - 6th September 2025

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Mavis passed away peacefully in the care of Oakfield Nursing Home on Saturday 6th September 2025, aged 81 years.

Mavis was the devoted and dearly loved wife of the late Thomas Jolly. A much loved and loving mum of Caron. A cherished ‘Nana Mavis’ to Lauren, Adam and Ryan, and a very dear mother in law of Ken.

She will be greatly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Her funeral will take place at Preston Crematorium on Tuesday 20th September at 12noon.

Family flowers only please. Should you wish to give a donation in memory of Mavis, it would be greatly appreciated to help support ‘Target Ovarian Cancer’ care of the funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

22/09/2025

In Loving Memory of Manus Blake Adamson
12th April 1944 - 4th September 2025

It is with deep sadness we have been asked to announce and share the news that Manus Blake Adamson died on Thursday 4th September in the Royal Preston Hospital, aged 81.

Manus was a much-loved husband, dad, father in law and Papa.

His body will be received into St. Mary & St. Michaels RC Church on Sunday 28th September at 5.00pm. The funeral mass will be celebrated on Monday 29th September at 11.00am before he is laid to rest in the Churchyard.

Everyone who knew Manus is welcome to attend and following the committal in the Churchyard, refreshments will be served at Garstang Golf Club. An opportunity to remember his life and recall many memories and stories.

Flowers are welcome, but should you prefer, donations can be made in memory of Manus to help support St. Mary & St. Michaels RC Church, or a charity of your own choosing.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

22/08/2025

In Loving Memory of Valerie Lang, ‘Val’
10th March 1940 – 6th August 2025

It is with great sadness that the family of Valerie share the news of her peaceful passing at Royal Lancaster Infirmary, with her loved ones by her side, on Wednesday 6th August 2025. Val was 85 years old.
Val was the devoted wife of the late Sam Lang, a much-loved Mum to Simon and Sally, and mother-in-law to Justine. She was a cherished and devoted Grandma to India, Finley, Sam, Katie, and Scarlet.
Born and raised in Oldham, Val moved to St Annes in 1955. In 1961 she met her future husband Sam, and they married the following year, beginning their life together in Garstang.
Val first worked as a secretary at Cheshire Homes, before Sam returned home one day with the news that he had bought a newsagent in Garstang. Together, they ran “Lang’s Newsagent,” where Val created a much-loved sandwich bar. Her sandwiches soon became legendary within the community. Val worked in the shop until her retirement, leaving behind fond memories for all who visited.
Throughout her life, Val was an active member of the Women’s Institute and the Garstang Theatre Group. She will be remembered always for her kindness, warmth, friendship, and wonderful sense of fun.
Her funeral service will take place at The Parish Church of St. Thomas Garstang on Friday 29th August at 2.00pm, before being laid to rest in the Churchyard.

Following the service, a warm invitation is extended to family and friends to The Royal Oak for light refreshments and to continue remember Val, sharing many stories and fond memories.

Family flowers only please. Should you wish to give a charitable donation in memory of Val, they would be gratefully received for ‘Bowgreave Rise Care Home Resident Amenity Fund’ c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

18/08/2025

In Loving Memory of John Helme, ‘Jack’
24th March 1938 - 8th August 2025

With deep sadness, we announce the peaceful passing of John ‘Jack’ Helme on Friday 8th August at Royal Preston Hospital, aged 87 years.

Jack was a dearly loved brother, uncle, and a true friend to all who knew him.

Born and raised at Island Farm, Winmarleigh, with his parents John and Elizabeth and his sister Jane, Jack’s roots were firmly in Lancashire. Though he never married, he was a devoted uncle to his nieces Veronica and Sarah, daughters of Jane and her late husband Jack Cole. Jack dedicated around 30 years of his working life to Myerscough College, where his hard work and kind nature were widely appreciated. Outside of work, he found great joy in gardening, particularly in growing fruit and vegetables and he was a passionate supporter of Preston North End. Cricket was another of his lifelong loves, keeping close ties with the local teams while also following Lancashire Cricket Club. Jack’s curiosity and sense of adventure took him far beyond home – his love of travel meant there were few corners of the world he hadn’t explored.

Jack will be remembered for his warmth, humour, and generosity of spirit. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of kindness and cherished memories in the hearts of all who knew him.

Jack’s funeral will take place at The Parish Church of St. Helen’s Churchtown on Friday 22nd August at 11.00am, before being laid to rest in the Churchyard.

Family flowers only please. Donations can be made in memory of Jack to help support the vital work of ‘North West Air Ambulance’ and the ‘R.N.I.B.’ c/o funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

14/08/2025

In Loving Memory of Brian Pearson
21st May 1950 - 28th July 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the sudden passing of Brian Pearson who sadly died on Monday 28th July. He was 75 years old.

Brian was the dearly loved and loving husband of Gwen. A much loved and devoted father to Martin, stepfather to Mark and Andrew, and a cherished and loving grandad to his seven grandchildren.

Locally born and raised, and married to Gwen for many wonderful years, Brian will always be remembered for ‘making the most of life’. As friends and family will know, he loved a good party. Holidaying in the campervan, enjoying a drink, chatting, dancing to his favourite music (especially Bryan Adams) and generally having fun.

Over the years, Brian turned his hand to many skills. He worked as a welder, ran his own business owning a scrap yard and in his later years, became a tanker driver. Even in retirement, he was never one to sit still. He loved being outdoors. Gardening, felling trees, chopping wood and socialising in the summer house. He was famous for tinkering away in his garage with the radio blaring (often all day and all night). And if you saw something painted blue, there was a good chance Brian had been there. His favourite colour found its way onto almost everything.

Brian had a sharp eye for a bargain, never afraid to ask for a discount or try his hand at bartering. He was also known for his leisurely driving pace. After all, in Brian’s words, everything was “too far, too much, or too fast.”

He will be sadly missed by many. Unique to say the least, there will truly never be another Brian.

His funeral service will take place at Beetham Hall Crematorium on Wednesday 20th August at 11.00am. Following the service, the family extend a warm invitation to join them at The Crown for light refreshments, to share stories and continue remembering Brian.

Family flowers only please. Donations if preferred can be given in memory of Brian to help support the vital work of North West Air Ambulance.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

31/07/2025

In Loving Memory of Mary Christine Kershaw
1946 – 2025

With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Mary Christine Kershaw, who died peacefully at St Catherine’s Hospice, Bamber Bridge, on Friday 11th July, surrounded by her devoted family.

Christine was the beloved partner of the late David Murgatroyd, a much-loved mum to Emma and Lee and a cherished nanna to Rhianna, Luke, Lily, and Poppy, and nanny to Lincoln. She was also a
proud great-nanny to Jude.

Christine will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Her funeral service will be held at Charnock Richard Crematorium on Thursday 7th August at 11.30am.

Following the service, all are warmly invited to join the family at Chorley Football Club for refreshments and to share memories of Christine.

Family flowers only, please. Donations in memory of Christine may be made to support the invaluable work of St Catherine’s Hospice via the funeral director.

All enquiries to:

Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB

Tel: 01995 601 600

30/07/2025

In Loving Memory of Winifred Swanwick ‘Winnie’
1942 - 2025

Further to a post from Winnie’s family, they would now like to confirm the details of her funeral service.

Her funeral service will take place at Beetham Hall Crematorium on Wednesday 13th August 2025 at 12.30pm.

After the service, family and friends are warmly invited to gather at The Farmers Arms, 18 Church Street, Garstang PR3 1PA from 3pm onwards for light refreshments and to share memories and stories of a lovely lady.

Family flowers only please. Donations if desired can be made in memory of Winnie to help support the vital work of the British Heart Foundation and Dementia UK care of the funeral director.

All enquiries to:
Greg Hodgkinson Independent Funeral Director
Garstang Funeral Home
Bridge Street
Garstang
PR3 1YB
Tel: 01995 601 600

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