Bill Gardner

Bill was Warwickshire through and through. He was born in 1919, brought up at Burlands Farm, and farmed at Gaydon, where he was a Churchwarden. When he retired from farming he worked for F.H. Burgess for 25 years, eventually retiring at 75.

For the last 27 years he and Janet have been an important part of Oxhill life. They would have celebrated their diamond wedding this July.

The countryside meant everything to him, in all its aspects; growing vegetables on an immaculate plot (never mind the flower beds, that’s Janet’s business), following hounds in his Land Rover and always knowing which way they would run, seeing how crops were growing in the fields (in his open-top Singer in the summer) he never missed a trick. Cantankerous and stubborn on occasions he might be, with a wicked sense of humour, but he was a truly special friend to many.

Oxhill Church was overflowing for Bill’s funeral on 12th May, with friends from all sides of Warwickshire life coming to say farewell, including the huntsman to blow him away, the whipper-in and a couple of hounds from Warwickshire Hunt, which he would have appreciated. Should you be in the Churchyard at some time in the future do not be surprised if you find runner beans growing on Bill’s grave – some were buried with him.

We shall miss you, old friend. Our prayers and thoughts are for Janet, Christopher, Brian and Nick.

Eve Whaley

This site is maintained by villagers of Oxhill for the benefit of the community and those interested in the history, news and activities that make the village such a pleasant place to live.

Send mail to the editor of the Oxhill News at news-editor @ oxhill.org.uk.

Last modified: June 20, 2006