We are saddened to report the passing of Old Boy John Roger Davenport on 10th March 2025.

Roger passed away suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Compstall, Stockport on Monday 10th March 2025.  Roger was a loving husband to Pamela, devoted father to Matthew and Jessica and hands-on grandfather to Zachary and Juliet, Agatha and Gabriel.

Roger attended Bury Grammar School from 1961 – 1968 where he took an active part in school life. Roger took part in several school activities including the Railway Club, the Stamp Club, Nature Study Society and Geographical Society. Roger was also a member of the school’s football and cricket teams. Roger’s form masters Mr Wiles and Mr Bennet noted that he was an excellent member of his form who was always courteous. As Roger gained in confidence he demonstrated a mature approach to his work. After completing his A Levels in Physics Chemistry and Biology he went onto study Biological Sciences at Fylde College Lancaster University. Both his children Matthew and Jessica carried on the tradition and went onto study at the same College and University.

He later established a career within the Health Service showing a keen interest in Community Based Health Care and Mental Health Issues. Initially working at Prestwich Hospital, Roger then moved onto Stepping Hill Hospital in Stockport and eventually became Chief Executive of Tameside General Hospital. Roger also undertook work with The Kings Fund, which provides support insights and analysis on health and social care services.  Roger was a lifelong member of the Institute of Health Service Management. Roger’s career and achievements working for the NHS demonstrated his commitment to delivering a service which put patients at the centre of care. After retiring from the Health Service Roger worked with vulnerable people supporting them to gain life skills and employment.

Roger was a keen Bury FC supporter, attending his first match at Gigg Lane in 1961.  His love of the club remained all his life, following the team home and away throughout the years. Like many other season ticket holders, Roger was devastated when the EFL announced that Bury’s membership of the league was withdrawn in 2019. Roger attended games with his late father and father-in-law, his wife, son, grandchildren and many friends.
 
Roger was the lynch pin of his family. Taking pride in the achievements of his children Matthew and Jessica, whether their first swimming badge, University degree or being involved in their weddings. Roger was a hands on grandfather, a role he placed higher than his own education achievements and successful career in the health service. He enjoyed sharing his love of reading, chess and nature with his four grandchildren, he enjoyed staying “Forever Young”. Roger was a member of the local historical society, enjoying connecting with his local community.

Roger’s love of science, history, art, photography, reading, sport, nature, travel and music is shared with his family. He leaves many photography albums and a large collection of CDs and vinyl records, with Bob Dylan being his favourite artist.

He was interested in politics, equality and social justice, which have all been on his mind recently, as Dylan wrote, “Times they are A – Changing”. He was a true European and took pleasure visiting not only Europe but countries further afield. Making good use of his National Trust and RHS memberships, his interest in history and the landscape could be enjoyed.
  
In his quiet unassuming way, Roger touched so many lives. His family have been overwhelmed with many messages and cards they have received, “a genuinely lovely kind man”, “he always listened to me and never judged me” “he was like my second Dad” “he was a good friend and someone I looked up to when I was younger”. “An amazing, gentle kind man, a rare gem, a beautiful person”.

Roger was loyal and reliable, and supportive to his family and wide circle of friends.  Roger had a zest for life, and may he stay forever young in our hearts. “Parting is such sweet sorrow” “Good night sweet prince, and flights of angels sing thee to thy rest”.

Our thoughts are with Roger's family and friends at this sad time.