AN “UNSUNG hero” has died aged 85 after decades serving the community of Frodsham.
Harry Pyle – a former town councillor who was respected for his tireless support of both local and Third World causes – died suddenly at his home in Carriage Drive, Frodsham, on Sunday morning.
He had been unwell for some time and two months ago he suffered a minor heart attack.
However, his widow Rose said he remained active and, the day before he died, Harry had enjoyed “a lovely day” gardening.
“He always said he wanted to go suddenly and he lived life to the end,” she added.
“Harry was always concerned and very involved in Third World countries and had a lifelong interest in Africa where he had good friends,” said Rose.
“Soon after he retired, he spent three months in Sudan with other aid volunteers during the famine relief efforts in Ethiopia, helping to provide clean water supplies.”
He joined the then Frodsham Parish Council in 1975, was elected chairman in 1977 and served as a councillor for 17 years.
Harry and Rose were among the founder members of Frodsham Badger Group, he was a founder member of Castle Park Arts Centre and remained an active member of the Tree Group.
“He was always very proud that he helped to set up these groups which are all still very active,” said Rose.
“Harry never did anything by halves! He held very deep religious and political beliefs but, most of all, he loved people.”
Colleagues and friends, town and Vale Royal borough councillor Brian Lloyd and Frodsham mayor Pammi Taylor, paid tributes this week.
Cllr Lloyd said: “Harry encouraged me to join the town council and acted almost like a mentor to me.
“I had such great respect for him and all he did for Frodsham and the wider community – and he had a terrific sense of humour!
“People like him don’t come along very often; he was truly an unsung hero.”
Cllr Taylor said: “Harry was one of the best; a true stalwart of the community and he’ll be sorely missed, not only by all the people of the town who knew him, but by the town council for all the work he did.”
Harry Pyle’s funeral will be held on Friday, July 11.
A private cremation service, for family only, will be followed at noon by a Quaker meeting of thanksgiving for Harry’s life at the Forest Hills Hotel, Frodsham. All are welcome to attend.
There will be no floral tributes but donations, if wished, to Oxfam.
Further enquiries should be made to funeral directors DT Turner on 01928 735189.
Obituaries – page 58-59
