Michael Rayner 9th January 1934 - 1st October 2005

My lovely Daddy, Michael Rayner was my main source of inspiration, encouragement and support in my Family Tree project. He was incredibly sentimental for things gone by whether that be a steam engine, a wherry, an antique book or indeed a long-dead relation. He was particularly fascinated by the unfolding  and somewhat tragic story of Hannah Amelia Lovell and Ephraim Sawyer. He remembered Hannah from his childhood in the 1930's when she was an old lady, well in to her eighties who was very stern and always wore Queen Victoria style black dresses.

Daddy was never happier than when surrounded by his family. He was on a constant quest to get us all together and loved nothing better than a family meal or gathering. Here he is with us all in my garden on 8th June 2003.

Back row L-R: Trevor Romney-Alexander (my foster brother), Daddy, Mummy, me, Rhys Sharp (my partner)

Front row L-R: William Rayner (my brother), Petra Rayner (my sister-in-law), Debbie Romney-Alexander (my sister-in law), Jessamine Rayner (my niece), Jane Rayner (my sister) and Bess the dog

Daddy was diagnosed with lung cancer in July 2005 and was on a course of chemotherapy when he suffered a massive heart attack and died in his sleep on 1st October. He was a kind and generous man with a soft-spot for the underdog and a genuine passion for the welfare of others - often to the detriment of his own. He is greatly missed.

Read his obituary on TheBookGuide.co.uk here