The funeral has taken place of retired headmaster John Potterton.

The 83-year-old, who died at his home in Seathorpe Avenue, Minster, was interred at Deerton Natural Burial Ground, Teynham, on May 4.

The Rev Gilbert Spencer conducted the graveside service and also officiated at Minster Abbey where there was a large congregation for the service.

Mr Potterton had been ill for some time and was cared for at home by wife Pam, family and nurses.

He came to Sheerness in 1976 to take up the appointment of head at Mile Town School, which was then amalgamated with Rose Street School.

He remained in post until retirement.

June Goymer, his secretary of 15 years, said: “He was a true gentleman in every sense of the word. An excellent headmaster who really cared, not only for pupils and school but parents and staff too.”

After National Service with the RAF, Mr Potterton followed his vocation in teaching and trained at The College of St Mark & St John, Chelsea.

During this period, he cycled to visit friends in Sittingbourne.

In turn, they “discovered” Sheppey on regular cycle rides and formed an attachment to the Island.

He and Pam, a probation officer, married in their native Leicester in 1956 and had four children: Christopher, Jane, Cathy and Fenella.

He taught in the county for six years before moving to the Isles of Scilly where he was head of a small school on Bryher – his eldest two children swelling the ranks.

On Sheppey, he and Pam became much involved in the community and made many friends as members of Sheerness Golf Club.

He was also a member Rotary Club of Isle of Sheppey and of a wine appreciation group.

As well as Pam and his
four children, he leaves grandchildren John, Ewan, Archie and Thomas, and great-grandson Arnie.