James Charles Radley, known to everyone as Jim, died peacefully in Eastbourne District General Hospital, after a catastrophic stroke, on May 27 aged 89. He moved to Iden in 1984 when his wife got a job at Thomas Peacocke School as it then was. He loved Rye and quickly became involved in the life of the town. On striking up a friendship with Reg Emson, Jim joined Rye Lions and was an active lion for over 25 years, acting as president of the club twice. He joined Hailsham Lions when Rye Lions sadly folded. He sang with Rye Singers under the direction of Lesley Brownbill and acted with Rye Players most notably in pantomime.
A man who always put others before himself and who believed in service to his community he could be seen collecting for the Lions outside Peasmarsh Jempson’s every Christmas. He was responsible for delivering Lions’ youth materials and handbooks to all the schools this side of Hastings. He was their number one washer up at social events for the elderly, most of whom were considerably younger than Jim.
Before moving to Iden, Jim was a senior lecturer at South London College. It is as a special needs teacher locally that Jim will be best remembered by many. His family have been greatly comforted by messages from former students remarking on Jim’s patience, his listening skills and his understanding of those for whom learning and education did not come easily. Jim studied politics at Reading University and his interest in local and national politics was lifelong.
A passionate West Ham United fan, he learned to love rugby too but never supported Wales, his wife’s team. Jim leaves his wife Jan, a former deputy headteacher at Rye Community College, a son Owen, two grandsons Will and Joshua, an extended family and many friends and former colleagues. His funeral will be held shortly.
Image Credits: Janette Radley .