Humble Roy was a hero who served so many during his life

The 90-year-old, who lived in Leamington, died on Monday November 5 with a thanksgiving service for his life being held at St Mark’s church today (Friday) from 2.45pm.

A former RAF pilot, who flew specially camouflaged blue Spitfires on more than 125 reconnaissance missions over Europe in the Second World War, Mr Kenwright was recognised for his brave service by being awarded with the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Medal for War Service from the former USSR.

One notable operation included surveillance on the German battleship Tirpitz, which was badly damaged as a result.

After the war Mr Kenwright worked in personnel management and studied for a degree in economics at London University.

He spent his entire working life as a personnel manager at plants in County Durham, Rochester, Woolwich and finally in Coventry where he worked at GEC Telecommunications covering 14,000 employees.

Retiring in 1987 at the age of 65, Mr Kenwright was determined to remain active and he worked for 30 hours a week serving the community.

He served the YMCA for 15 years, becoming chairman of the central region personnel committee, and worked for the Warwickshire Association for the Blind for 12 years arranging and participating in visits.

He also devoted most of his time to Myton Hospice in Warwick and the Citizens Advice Bureau in Leamington.

For his services to the community he was made an MBE in the New Year’s Honours List in 2000.

The middle of three sons, Mr Kenwright was born in South London in 1922.

He studied modern languages at Oxford University from 1940 before he was called up into the RAF.

Mr Kenwright’s family have described him as a man with a deep Christian faith who was a warm and humble gentleman of whom many were fond and whose company they enjoyed.

He leaves Hilda, his wife of 63 years, three children, five grandchildren and five great grandchildren.