John Housby has died peacefully at home after a long illness. John was born in Chatton in 1925 but soon moved with his family to Alnwick where he spent the rest of his life. He began work in the family soft drinks business in the middle of the town but then entered Alnwick Training College to become what he really wanted to be - a teacher.
After leaving College, John was appointed to teach mathematics at the Duchess's Grammar School for Girls. When, in the seventies, schools in the county were reorganised into a three-tier system John continued to teach at the Duchess's High School. Although he enjoyed his teaching there he was not as keen on the three-tier system!
John's faith saw him as a member of St Michael's Church and a regular attender always sitting in the family pew - second from the front.
Aside from his family, John's great interest lay in photography. There can scarcely be a village hall in North Northumberland that has not seen John give shows of his pictures to W.I.'s, Over 60s', Historical Societies, the Arthritis Society and the like. He also did work for the Archives Department of Alnwick Castle photographing such historic treasures as Elizabeth I's left-handed soup spoon, (Elizabeth was a south-paw), and Anne Boleyn's prayer book.
In 1954, with Winston Churchill still Prime Minister, John joined the Alnwick and District Camera Club and remained a member until his recent death. He described it just a few weeks ago as his "extended family". He filled most of the Officer Posts, at one point three simultaneously, and was a member of the Committee for thirty-three successive years. He was greatly respected by members for his loyalty to the club and for his work and unfailing help and advice.
In 2001 John was awarded the APAGB (Award of the Photographic Alliance of Great Britain) for services to photography in Northern England, a great honour and one that he treasured.
John lost his wife Joan in tragic circumstances some twenty years ago and leaves a daughter, Elaine. Our condolences go out to her.
Doug Ross