188 Years of The Stanhill Methodist Church

On the 15th December 2001 we heard the sad news that Mary Grimshaw had passed away. Mary was a loyal member of the church and for 96 years attended the chapel from being a baby. She devoted her life to everything the church had to offer. Mary never married, she lived a frugal life and lived in the past - no fridge, washing machine, television, telephone. But she managed and was happy and content. Kind, quiet Mary is fondly remembered. More sad news followed on 19th January 2002 when Fred McMyn passed away. Mc, as he was fondly known, first came to Stanhill when he married May Bury in 1938 at the church. He soon got involved in chapel life and was a good support to May with everything she did for the church. Mc became church treasurer in 1960 taking over from his father-in-law, Abel Bury. Mc enjoyed the job until the mid 1980’s. He was also the circuit NCH treasurer (National Children’s Home) Mc was lost when his beloved May passed away in 1986. He rallied round and tried to cope the best he could. Mc was a true ‘gentleman’ and a friend to all. Sadly missed. In the May of the same year we mourned the loss of Marjorie Plummer , a relatively ‘new comer’ to Stanhill. She settled in well and soon made friends with the people of Stanhill. In August 2002 – A Marriage Celebration Service. All who were married here at the Stanhill Methodist Church were invited to a BBQ in the church garden prior to the celebration service when there was an opportunity to renew wedding vows. A special heart shaped cake was made by Doreen. Tea and cake enjoyed after the service and a good chat reminiscing about their wedding day! At the end of 2003 we had to say ‘Goodbye’ to Hilda and Fred Silcock, who moved to Tilehurst near Reading to live with their son, Mark and family. An emotional decision for them, but the right one at the right time. We have mentioned these stalwarts, as the photograph at the start of this ‘section’ shows them all happy together – now all reunited in Heaven.

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