Godfrey Lindsay as a BGS pupil in the 1930s with teacher Mr Hawtin

IT is with deep regret that we report the death earlier this week of Bangor Grammar School stalwart Godfrey Lindsay, at the advanced age of 97.
A former resident of Princetown Road in Bangor, Godfrey passed away on Tuesday 26 September at the Holywood Nursing Home.
Speaking on behalf of the Committee of Bangor Grammarians, chairman Geoffrey Miller said he wished to record their sadness at the passing of distinguished member and past pupil Godfrey Lindsay.
“He maintained a close link with his alma mater throughout his long life, regularly attending the AGM of the Association well into his 90s.”
The chairman recalled how Godfrey had played a “particularly fitting role” back in 2011, when, in the company of two Year 8 pupils, he cut the first sod on the Gransha Road site, “thus providing a real and tangible bridge between the old and the new school.”
The chairman extended Bangor Grammarians’ sympathy to Godfrey’s cousins and the wider family circle.
Born Edward Godfrey Lindsay on 9 June 1920, he attended Bangor Grammar School from 1930-37. His late younger brother Charles was also a pupil at the school (1930-35). The family lived for many years at Raglan Road, in the town.
After leaving the school, Godfrey studied Modern History and Political Science at Trinity College in Dublin. Following wartime service, which included a spell in Egypt, he commenced a long career in the Northern Ireland Civil Service.
Much of his time while still at work and also following his retirement was devoted to the well-being of Bangor Grammar School.
Four years ago, at the age of 93, he was reunited with former classmate Jim Gibson, a retired GP from Newcastle, County Down. Although they hadn’t seen each other for more than 75 years – not since completing their education at BGS – within a short time they were sharing memories of life during the seven years they both spent at the school, as well as fondly-remembered teachers.
A Service of Thanksgiving and the Committal will take place at Roselawn next Tuesday (3 October) at noon.

Godfrey Lindsay helps to cut the first sod at Gransha Road in 2011. included are Education Minister Ms C. Ruane and Year Eight pupils Damien Kerr (left) and Harrison McDonald

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