Sad news reaches me from Dawn Hayton who has let me know that John Dennis, the handyman at The Memo for many years when it was the beating heart of the Brownhills community, has passed away suddenly.

John will be greatly missed and was a good friend to all who knew him and was dedicated and tireless in his support of Brownhills and the local community.

My sincerest condolences go out to John’s family, friends and also to Dawn and all the other folks who worked with him at the Memorial Hall. 

My sympathies, may he rest in peace.

It is with great sadness to pass on the news of the recent sudden death of John Dennis, our amazing volunteer at The Memo.

John, fondly known by many as JD gave many hours of his own time until last year bringing The Memo gardens back into order. Mowing, pruning, weeding, sweeping and burning rubbish when possible or using his own car to help with trips to the tip.

When the grounds were looking good he put his hand to painting railings, gates, walls and jet washing pathways all amazing work transforming the building and complimented by many. 

John attended many events bringing in new people and was always there for the heavy jobs of setting rooms up plus always being on hand to both The Sunshine Club and Darby & Joan when needed. Basically if something needed doing JD would happily help. A superstar.

For those who would like to pay their respects, JD’s funeral is Friday 28th September 2018 and will be leaving from Smithy’s Forge at 11am for a service at Streetly Crematorium Midday, then returning to Smithy’s Forge.

Huge condolences to his girls Karen, Jo, Tina and Sam and their families at this very sad time and to his many friends both old and new. 

A proper Brownhills Lad, big respect John, sleep tight.  

Much love from Team Memo x

Dennis’s daughter, Sam asked me to add this morning:

We would like to thank Tina the manager and her team at Smithy’s Forge for their brave and quick response at giving Dad CPR. We are eternally grateful.

He was having his last pint which is exactly what he would have wanted. We have seen the best community spirit come from the people of Brownhills this week and it has helped immensely.