Philip Archer GUMMETT eulogy


Philip Archer GUMMETT - Died 16th November 1976 Eulogy at Funeral Mass - St Vincent's Church, Becontree given by - Father Bernard Wakeling (Cousin) I suppose that there is no greater bore than the man who finds it necessary continually to justify his existence. A man who has to impress others constantly with the fact of his superlative importance. One who is fidgety and manifestly annoyed when conversation veers away from himself. Such people, of course, however genuine may be their claim to fame, are basically egoists, invariably vain and usually spurred on by overweening ambition. We find them in all classes of society: among politicians, priests and pavement artists; in the ranks of dukes, doctors and dock-workers; boxers, bureaucrats and barrow-boys. And they all strive to impress us with their superior excellence.And they all make us sick! To my mind, the quality that summed up the character of Phil Gummett was his quiet self sufficiency. He was the perfect antithesis of all I have just said about egoists. He knew, calmly, where he stood. He recognised, humbly, both his talents and his limitations -feeling neither undeserved pride in the first, nor foolish embarrassment in the second. He had no need of boost from outside -and mainly insincere sources. HE KNEW HIMSLF, as well as anyone can - and for that fact alone was a man to be envied and admired! Characteristically he found his OWN way into the Church and, well instructed by that good old Rector Canon Carey, he imbibed a faith that, like himself, was well reasoned, strong and unshakeable. It was not his nature to parade his love of his religion, but it was there, nevertheless, for those who had eyes to discern it. Fundamentally honest and sure of his ground, he had no room for hypocrites, and not infrequently exercised his dry wit at their expense - for, although reserved and unassuming, he could dig in his heels when necessary, and hit hard when he felt that the occasion demanded retaliation. On his return from service in the Great War, like so many others, he found that there was no opening left for him in his chosen trade as a french polisher, and so turned his hand to other less rewarding jobs, in order to support his young wife and himself. Their marriage was soon marred by tragedy, when their first baby, Francis, died in his mother's arms - and, indeed, for many years life was very hard. For a long spell Phil was employed at Becton Gas Works, during which time he brought his family to Becontree, and was present when the foundation stone of this very Church was laid. When the school was built he became its first caretaker,and served St Vincent's parish in that capacity until his retirement, eighteen years or so ago. Supported by their four devoted children, Phil and Mary have spent their declining years in comparative comfort until, that is, this last painful illness struck Phil down. Only his wife who, far from well herself, nursed him up to the time he was taken to hospital - only she knows the full extent of his suffering which, I feel, he offered to his Master, in reparation for the faults and failings of his near blameless life. Let this be the main source of consolation to his bereaved wife and children. We pray, as we must, for the Repose of his Soul but, if he has not heard them already, I hope that it will not be long before he hears the words he has longed to hear all his life: "Well done, good and faithful servant! Enter now into the Joy of The Lord!" Rest in Peace

This page last updated 26 January 2023