Celebration of the Life of Past Master Geoffrey Marsh MBE – 8 May 2025
A warm and moving celebration of the life of Past Master Geoffrey Marsh MBE took place on Thursday 8 May at St Magnus the Martyr, attended by members of the Worshipful Company of Plumbers, family and friends.
The service offered a heartfelt tribute to Geoff, with reflections shared from family members and fellow Liverymen, capturing the humour, character, and Christian faith of a much-loved man.
The congregation gathered in the historic setting of St Magnus the Martyr to honour the life and service of Past Master Geoffrey Marsh MBE, a distinguished and deeply respected member of the Company. As the Master later shared, “It was a beautiful service, so uplifting, and it was lovely to hear about the man and his character from both the family and Bob Oakley, Upper Warden Sandra Raine, Liveryman David Wood-Heath, and Past Master Nick Gale. You all had the same message but said it in different ways and with different stories.”
The musical accompaniment elevated the occasion. The congregation sang heartily to Love Divine All Loves Excelling, I Vow to Thee My Country (marking VE Day), and The Lord’s My Shepherd. These were beautifully complemented by the St Magnus Quartet and the church’s renowned organ, played by John Eady. Choral pieces included All Things Bright and Beautiful (Geoff’s favourite), The Lord Bless You and Keep You by John Rutter, and If Ye Love Me by Tallis, creating powerful moments of reflection.
Geoff’s son, Trevor, read from scripture, while his daughter, Helen, shared a reflective piece written by Geoff in 2000, expressing his deep Christian beliefs. Liveryman Elisabeth Finch, at the request of Geoff’s wife Ann, opened the service with words that brought Geoff’s sense of humour vividly to life. The service concluded with a poignant performance of Elgar’s Nimrod, unknowingly echoing the music that had opened Geoff’s funeral in January—bringing a deeply symbolic sense of completion to the day.
The family were deeply touched by the presence, words, and warm thoughts from all who attended, and by the many who sent their love and memories from afar. Their appreciation for Past Master Geoffrey Marsh MBE lives on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Submitted by Liveryman Elisabeth Finch