Dear Editor,

The Ross Gazette reported on August 13th of the sudden death of a man from suspected cardiac arrest in the King Charles public house in Broad Street, Ross.

That man was William Gareth Carr, more widely known around town simply as Billy. His funeral took place in St Mary’s Church on Tuesday, August 28th.

Billy was often to be seen sitting outside his flat in Pigs’ Alley enjoying the sun in his trademark sunglasses. As nearby residents, my wife and I often engaged in cheery conversation with him.

We knew little of Billy’s life, but he was clearly a person who had not had it easy, but he did not allow this to lead to embitterment. Billy always had kind and humorous words to exchange with anyone who engaged with him. In his positive attitude and enjoyment of life in the moment, he was an example to us all.

We will miss his presence dearly. We offer our commiserations to his family. May Billy now rest in peace.

Stephen Rickerby

Ross-on Wye