As you all know Father Anthony Richins passed away, after a short illness, on Saturday 3rd January, aged 82, his funeral service took place at St George’s Catherdral Southwark 27th January 2015. Bishop Pat Lynch presided at the Mass. Also on the altar was Archbishop Emeritus Michael Bowen and over 40 priests of the Diocese. There was as short Eulogy, as was Anthony’s wish, he didn’t want a “big fuss” made at his funeral. The Eulogy, delivered by Fr, Gerard Bradley [a close friend of Anthony's] - from Wonersh, focussed on Anthony’s quest, that his life was focused on his eventual target, preparing himself to enter into the House of The Lord, he passionately believed that life was "just" the journey.

John (Jake) our old Art teacher at Clapham in the 1960s and 1970 and our latest COXA Life Member was there; as was his brothers, Francis, Laurence [all ex-Clapham pupils – was was Anthony, and their families. Bill Nighy [the famous actor] attended as Father Anthony taught him and would have been inspirational in focusing him on an career in acting.

Old Xaverians in attendance were: Michael Straiton, Phil Roderick Jones, Colin Garvey, Kevin Bond, Alec Morrish, Ted Hayter, Brian Sanders, Mick Power, Eddie O’Brien, Tony O’Shea, Scotty, The service, a testimony to Anthony’s love of classical and organ music was followed by Refreshments in the Amigo Hall.

Anthony was a priest, but also a Classics scholar, a musician - that 15 foot organ - and a loyal supporter of the Old Xaverians.

He will be sadly missed.