Where to start with John? Well firstly he was a great person who made a huge impact on those who met him. Old fashioned, abrupt, a bit grumpy, but behind this facade was a genuine kind and giving individual.
John worked tirelessly at the club every day during the week from 2012 up until last year when his ageing body finally caught up with him.
He would work behind the scenes, rarely seen at weekends, to ensure the club was the best it could be during at time of financial hardship. Cleaning, fixing, mending, making& creating. Prepping pitches, building a stand, laying concrete bases, rodding drains, fixing floodlights and so much more. You name it he did it.
The most recent chapter with John started in 2012 where he wandered in to the club following the death of his wife, a little lost, and offered his services as he now had time to help out. Little did we realise this would lead to 13 years of unbroken hard work and dedication. All voluntary. Never did he ask for a single penny.
In fact it was quite the opposite, back in 2012 when the existence of the club was under threat, John donated a significant amount of money to help ensure short term liabilities could be met . Again all under the radar. Nothing to shout about. That was John.
We really can’t thank him enough for what he did for the club. It can’t be put in words properly. We have a trophy in his name in the clubhouse and this annual match will be played again in his memory. We also have the John Brown stand that he helped build. A legacy to remember him by.
Steyning has lost a true gent. At the club we all have many memories of our friend John. The ability to tuck away the beers was also another great skill. Grasping a beer glass with his shovel sized hands. Chatting to those nearby that took the time to hear his stories of bygone years.
Our thoughts go out to his family and friends. I’m sure many people have memories stretching back further than we here now can remember.
Thankyou John. A true club legend. Rest in peace.
