RIP Francis Johnson 1920-2009
: Created:16 Jan 2009 , by Alastair JohnstoneIt is with great sadness that I must report the death of Francis Johnson, who has passed away at the age of 88.
We were greatly saddened to learn last night of the death of Francis Johnson, whose association with Ealing Chess Club dates back over quarter of a century. A regular member of the club's league teams from the outset, Francis made well over 250 appearances and was still in action at the board as recently as eighteen months ago. He had a cultured playing style with a strong instinct for positional correctness and if some of the tactical edge may have dimished in later years he remained a most resourceful opponent to the end.
Francis was also a past serving President of the club in the mid 1990's and was still an honorary vice president at the time of his death.
We understand from his son, Marc, that chess and visits to the club were a great source of pleasure to Francis, along with his love of good wine, rock climbing and annual holidays to Jersey.
Ever gracious and good humoured, Francis will be greatly missed by all those who had the pleasure of knowing him at the club. We send our condolences to his wife and family.
Francis's funeral is at 1pm on Wednesday 28th January at Mortlake Cemetry.