Keith Hendry: an obituary

It was with sadness that I learned from Julie Dunk that Keith Hendry had died on 10th February 2021. Many will remember Keith as the face of Guildford Crematorium which he represented at conferences that he assiduously attended from 1986 to 2007, only missing 1999. Keith’s favourite conference was in Glasgow in 1990 – must have been the generous drams of whisky! (I must say that I agree that it was a wonderful event).

Keith began his working life as an engineering apprentice which did not suit him and, after a period working on cars as a mechanic, he joined the Surrey police force as a constable in 1970. Unfortunately, a serious accident while on duty in a Police Mini brought about a change of direction which led to Keith joining the funeral profession as a bearer with the Royal Arsenal Co-operative Society at their Guildford branch. Keith enjoyed the varied and often demanding position and progressed to the role as a funeral director but was tempted by a job at Guildford crematorium and was successful in his application taking up the post as assistant superintendent of Guildford crematorium and cemeteries in August 1976. Keith was appointed the third manager since the crematorium opened in 1967 and in 1983 found himself responsible for the crematorium, a mortuary and two cemeteries.

This was a role that Keith enjoyed and one, which in addition to his day-to-day managerial tasks, he had the opportunity to develop a new memorial garden which became his pride and joy. The introduction of troughs and hanging baskets into the crematorium grounds resulted in a Britain in Bloom commendation in 2002. In 2004 Keith was very proud indeed that the crematorium came second in the Cemetery of the Year (crematoria only section) competition.

Keith suffered a serious heart attack in 2006. After a period of recovery, he returned to work but sadly he experienced further problems in December 2008. Keith eventually took early retirement in July 2009 after 32 years dedicated service. Keith went on to enjoy his retirement with gardening, holidays and being with his family up until his death in February.

By Alan José

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