Our school community is deeply saddened by the death of long-serving member of staff and friend to many, John Marshall.

John, who was connected with King’s for over forty years, died on June 8th, aged 79. He is survived by his wife, Rosemary, who taught at Acremont House, his sons, Andrew and Chris, and their families.

John joined King’s in January 1986, although he already knew the school well from a parent’s perspective as both Andrew and Chris are Old Eleans. Over the next twenty years, he was a stalwart member of the school community. John was a dedicated Teacher of Economics, Maths, and Business Studies, and he served as the Exams Officer, Academic Registrar and latterly, Director of Studies.

John was passionate about sport. In addition to coaching, refereeing, and umpiring, John managed the administration of our rugby and cricket diligently. Even after his retirement, he was a familiar face umpiring our cricket matches for many years.

Ely Cathedral was another significant part of John’s life. When the Cathedral needed to raise large sums of money for its restoration, he volunteered to act as appeal treasurer. He was Chairman of the Ely Cathedral Choristers' Society and would often attend school services in his role as a Lay Minister.

In an article about John’s retirement, Piers Coutts, our former Head of Economics and Business Manager, wrote: “How can I sum up someone who has been a colleague and friend for well over half of both our working lives? Committed, caring, involved in everything, passionate about the best interests of the school, trustworthy, and honest as the day.”

Gill Smith, our Director of Higher Education and Graduate Careers, described John as a “man of great integrity and a consummate professional in all the roles he undertook at King’s”. She added: “John lived out his Christian faith in everyday life. He will be missed.”

Julian Atkinson, Teacher of Classics and English, said: “John was incredibly generous with his time and offered advice in a non-judgemental and supportive way. His kindness and consideration for others shone out.”

Our thoughts and prayers are with John’s family and friends. His dry sense of humour, kindness, and willingness to give his time without question, will be hugely missed by our whole school community.

John’s funeral is being held at Ely Cathedral on Tuesday 15th July at 12.15pm. Everyone is welcome.