Family pays tribute to owner of former furniture shop Hoads of Horsham

Martin Rees, who owned Hoads of Horsham in the Bishopric, has died aged 76.

His family has contributed the following tribute to him.

Martin Rees was an exceptional man, a gentleman, a loving, caring, husband, father, brother and a true friend to many.

Martin loved people, and they loved him. He never had a bad word to say about anyone, nor they about him. He was never angry, never miserable and never complained even in the most challenging times.

Generous with his time, Martin was an excellent listener and gave good advice. A wise old owl, he was kind and very intelligent.

One of his greatest attributes was his humour and wit. He had a wicked sense of humour, which would sometimes get him into trouble.

From leaving school, he started his career in the furniture trade working for Harrison Gibsons in Ilford, working himself up to eventually owning his own furniture business, Hoads of Horsham.

Martin was an excellent salesman, with great charm and a genuine care for his customers and colleagues, taking an interest in them and remembering them.

Customers were always looked after by him, and would come back time after time. They would even pop in just to say ‘hello’ and have a chat.

When eventually Hoads closed and Martin retired, the shop was bought by a charity affiliated to The Salvation Army. Martin offered his services and experience to help them set up, and then volunteered his time three days a week thereafter.

Martin loved France and for 35 years had visited for many holidays. He loved the people, loved the way of life, loved the food, loved the restaurants.

Martin had a gargantuan appetite for life, but did not take life too seriously.

He had an incorrigible spirit enriching those who came within his sphere of influence. With the patience of a saint, Martin gave selflessly and tirelessly, always putting others before himself.

All those who were fortunate enough to know him, are grateful for the gift of his life.

Martin was married to Irene and had five children - Nick, Justin, Sarah, Jo and Deborah - and nine grandchildren.

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