Tributes paid to former Southwold brewery chairman John Adnams

John Adnams, who passed away on July 22 at the age of 92. Photo: Courtesy of Dave Leckie (Image: Archant)

John Adnams died peacefully in the early hours of Saturday, July 22, at the age of 92.

His wife Josephine Adnams has paid tribute to the dedication shown to Southwold by her husband.

As the grandson of Ernest Adnams, co-founder of the famous Southwold brewery, Mr Adnams joined the board of the company in 1956.

Mr Adnams was a former chairman and managing director of Adnams brewery. Photo: Courtesy of Dave Leckie (Image: Archant)

Seven years later he became managing director, remaining in the post until 1973 when he took over the role of chairman.

Having retired as chairman in 1995, he was appointed president of Adnams and continued to serve as a non-executive director until 2005.

Ahead of his funeral, Mrs Adnams reflected on her husband's relentless desire to ensure the town of Southwold reached its full potential.

John's wife Josephine has paid tribute to his unrelenting dedication and commitment to the town of Southwold. Photo: Courtesy of Dave Leckie (Image: Archant)

'He was a man who would always help someone before he hindered them,' she said.

'Not only did he dedicate his time to helping people and businesses get on their own two feet, but he did it quietly and without any pomp and circumstance.'

As well as lending his generosity to local people and helping Adnams to develop as a symbol of Southwold, Mr Adnams also helped set up the coastal town's lifeboat station and conducted a multitude of charity auctions.

He was also a keen member of the Southwold Town Council committee, who made him High Steward.

'In all the years he was a councillor, John never missed a meeting,' added Mrs Adnams.

'He was totally committed to the town and its people.

'Southwold wouldn't be what it is today without his efforts, and it's going to be a different place without him.'

Due to the closure of St Edmund's Church in Southwold for refurbishment, Mr Adnams' funeral service will take place at Waveney Memorial Park and Crematorium in Ellough, near Beccles.

However, because numbers will be restricted, Mrs Adnams would like to know in advance roughly how many people wish to attend.

Anyone looking to pay their respects at a celebration of Mr Adnams' life should contact Edna Utting by emailing e.utting@btinternet.com, or call 01502 578311 and leave a message with your name and number.