The following obituary was written by James Stanley (PS 90-95)

Affectionately known as Nevs and Nevsie, James arrived at Tonbridge and Parkside from New Beacon.  He was one of those people that you naturally warmed to on first meeting.  On arriving at the Novi visit, you could immediately see that here was a chap, an all-rounder, that would always be the centre of any friendship group.  True testament to this is the number of OTs that he counted as friends to this very day and whom can tell you many a story of a friend that always brought the best out of any situation, whether it be through work, socially or on the golf course.

Although not an academic over achiever (albeit a member of MENSA), Nevs was an over achiever in life.  His ability to light up any encounter and add value was without comparison.  Many of those who have commented of his passing, have mentioned him being the truest of gentleman, a kind and generous man.  But to those who knew him best, he was the best definition of a friend there can be.  Someone who, simply put, was always there for you and cared immensely for your success and betterment.  Nevs was always the first man on any ‘team sheet’, be it a dinner invitation, a game of golf or indeed just a chat or catch-up.  In a world where there is seemingly so very little time, he would always make time for you. But more than this he was the best of company; wives and friends have always remarked that they really had lucked out if they were ever sat next to him at a dinner or party.  A more genuinely witty and charming man you will not find elsewhere, was a sentiment conveyed by many.

Following on from Tonbridge and Leeds Metropolitan University (where his met his Katherine, wooing her with charm and dodgy Hawaiian shirts), Nevs entered the property world, becoming a chartered surveyor and specialising in commercial retail.  His passion, integrity and knowledge were always his focus in delivering success.  He was always held in the highest regard and many that knew him professionally have remarked in his passing of a true gentleman and a real loss to the industry.

Outside of work and friendship, Nevs had a massive love of fine wine, soft rock, James Bond, golf and pale chinos.  What a mix one might think, but a mix that showed his appreciation for the finest and best things in life and that captures a joie de vivre which typified his positive and fun outlook on the world. His enthusiasm for life rarely faltered, and he would often be the first man at the bar and the last to leave.

There are few words that in summary can really describe Nevs, but he was one of the very best, and he will be missed by all those he came into contact with. He was an outstanding friend and someone who just added value to you.  There will be an empty glass at every table that he would have been at, but a toast (of decent claret) will be always raised in memory of all the great times together.  He was the most generous and big hearted friend, and someone that will be remembered as brilliant fun who provided so many funny, enjoyable and special times.

A celebration of James’ life is planned for 3pm on 16th October at St Peter and St Paul’s Church, Seal, Kent.  Continued fundraising in his memory for The Wooden Spoon Charity can be seen through www.justgiving.com/fundraising/James-Neathercoat.
(PS 90-95)