Former Hungerford Mayor Ron Tarry passes away

Ron was mayor at the time of the Hungerford massacre in 1987

Author: Jonathan RichardsPublished 4th Mar 2022

Ron Tarry - who was possibly Hungerford's best known citizen - has passed away after a short illness.

He was Mayor of Hungerford on two occasions including at the time of the 1987 massacre.

At the time of his death he was president of Hungerford Town football club who he'd served for more than seventy years.

The club issued this statement:

"It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we must report that, after a short illness, our beloved President Ron Tarry passed away peacefully in his sleep this morning.

"Ron supported and served the club for over 70 years and at times, almost single-handedly, kept the club running and afloat. He held every position in the club including 1st Team Manager from 1959 until the mid-1960s, Chairman and more recently President. In fact the only job Ron claims to have never done was serve behind the bar, preferring instead to support the club from the customer's side.

"Ron was also a loyal and devoted servant to the town of Hungerford. He served as Town Mayor twice, including at the time of the Hungerford Tragedy in 1987 when he led the town through one of its most turbulent times in its history.

Ron Tarry delivering a statement a day after the 1987 massacre

"Ron sadly lost his wife Beryl a few years ago and leaves behind four children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to the whole family.

"The world of football is a poorer place without Ron and Hungerford Town Football Club is today mourning the loss of a true club legend. Rest in peace President for you will never be forgotten."

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