Fr. Tony provided holiday cover for both Fr. Christopher Pritchard and Fr. Peter Madden from his home in Erith. Although still attached to Brentwood, he worked as a ‘freelance’ priest helping out in many of the local parishes. The following obituary appeared in the newsletter shortly after his death.
I first knew Father Tony in 1966 when I went to St John’s Seminary, Wonersh to begin my studies for the Priesthood. He came across as a self-disciplined person but showed great talent in growing dahlias. He was ordained for the Diocese of Brentwood on July 6th 1968, after which I lost contact. To my surprise, and gratitude in finding a Priest to cover my holidays, I renewed acquaintance on my appointment to Crayford. I told him to come and concelebrate at any time to which he seemed to respond. Each time I have been away, and the occasional ’emergency’ Fr Tony has been conscientious and faithful to the task, keeping you up to date on his family that he loved so much. I often wished (selfishly) he would use his expertise as a craftsperson & gardener but he chose to ‘not get involved’. His illness and rapid deterioration has been a shock to us all. I’m glad he returned to the Priesthood after a long absence: may he rest in peace.
Fr Peter Madden, April 26th 2003