Obituary: James Allison

It is with deep sadness that we share the recent passing of James Allison, a respected and much liked member our Security Services team, who died in August.

James worked at Reading for 17 years and was well known across our university community. Many of us would have known, spoken with or regularly seen him, in the control room or as he patrolled the campus.

James is remembered among his colleagues for his warmth and decency. Many of us reflect on how on any occasion he could bring a smile to our faces.

He got involved in many aspects of University life, including working in the Great Hall for Graduation, managing events and handling unexpected events on campus.

James was also a man of many talents and passions, including dancing, composing music, and following Celtic Football Club. The enjoyment he took from these lighter moments and his sense of humour brightened our working days and is something we will all miss.

I know from speaking with James’ family that he loved working at Reading and was proud of what we do here. So, as we continue our work on campus, in our minds it will be a small tribute to him.

Remembrance event

A remembrance ceremony is being held in Harris Garden at 13:30 on Saturday 26 October, to which all family, friends, colleagues are welcome.

A bench will be unveiled in James’ memory, after which guests are invited to Park House for  tea, coffee and light sandwiches.

James’s family ask that if anyone wishes to make a contribution, can they please do so to the ‘Campaign Against Living Miserably’ (CALM) , a charity working to support people with depression. Contributions can be made in person at the security control room, at the remembrance ceremony, or online directly to CALM.

by Dilip Amin, Security Services Manager

Support is available from the University for those affected by this news.

Colleagues can find information on the University’s wellbeing webpages, including on our Employee Assistance Programme. Support is also available from a range of charities, including Cruse Bereavement Support.