It is with much sadness that the Society brings news of the death of the Reverend Martin Beaumont on 30 August 2024.

A Yorkshireman, educated at Pocklington, Martin read Theology at King’s College, London following which he was ordained Priest in Newcastle Diocese in 1975. He served as a Curate in the west of the city before joining Marlborough as Assistant Chaplain. Then to Exeter Diocese where he was both the Bishop’s Domestic Chaplain and the Vicar of a rural benefice. Whilst there he continued to play rugby which, as well as attracting the attention of the local press, provided source material for his morning addresses in Chapel, as did his stories from Tyneside. During his time in Devon Martin married Ruth, who was unstinting in her support as he moved around the country. Next to Taunton School until joining Haileybury in January 1992.

In his role as Senior Chaplain, Martin was much loved by staff and pupils alike. As a colleague he was always good humoured and supportive, never seemingly phased by anything. He was the consummate schoolmaster teaching across the age range, including Moral Philosophy at A level, and was much involved out of class. His love of rugby and swimming made him a well-respected coach of both, as did his love of Leeds FC on the soccer field. Although he did not coach cricket, he was a very useful top order batsman for the Nondescripts. A keen walker and climber, he was involved in Duke of Edinburgh expeditions and took part in a number of World Challenge trips. His sense of fun was apparent from the characters he played in Pastimes.

After eight years at Haileybury, Martin became Chaplain of Tonbridge before returning to parish life as the Vicar of Chiddingstone, Kent from where, in 2019, he retired to Somerset. Initially working as a part-time associate priest, in 2021 he became Priest in Charge of All Saints, Rockwell Green.

Martin touched the lives of many and will be remembered with deep affection and gratitude by all those who knew him.

The Society offers its sincere condolences to Ruth.

With thanks to Robin Bishop (Former Staff) for this tribute.

Funeral Details:

Thursday 26th September, 1.00pm

All Saints Church, Exeter Rd, Rockwell Green, Wellington, TA21 9DH