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In Memory - Barrie Lea (1940 - 2022)

Barrie Lea (9th Apr 1940 - 15th Feb 2022)

An appreciation by Geoff Wood

Raymond Lea, or Barrie as he was universally known in his personal life, sadly passed away after a long illness on the 15th February. Although not born in Marlow, Barrie was a true Marlovian in every other sense in that he adored the town and the surrounding villages and countryside, which he delighted in recording in his beautiful photographs.

He had a long career as an author and photographer under his professional name Raymond, publishing in books and quality magazines such as Country Life. After his retirement, he put his many skills to good use travelling around Bucks and surrounding counties, photographing interesting buildings and natural features in the landscape. He also developed an interest in local history and collected old books and photos from previous eras. Many exhibitions held in Marlow by the society and other organisations have benefitted from Barrie’s generosity in loaning items from his collection.

Barrie had a lifelong love of animals, particularly dogs, and his home in West Street was rarely without a well-loved pet, which enjoyed sharing his long walks around the countryside. Many beautiful photographs of animals and birds lined his walls and shelves, and would entrance visitors.

After his mother died in 1995, Barrie was without close family, but he made many local friends because of his warm and generous nature. He kept a beautiful garden and offered it every year as the venue for the summer gatherings of the Marlow Society, of which he has been a stalwart member for decades.

His lasting legacy will of course be his photos but, for those of us who were lucky enough to know him, his smile and the warmth and vivacity of our meetings will live long in our memories.

Barrie’s funeral took place at 11am on Monday 14th March at All Saints Church in Marlow. All were welcome.