COMMEMORATE
Leave a message or share your favourite memory or anecdote about Mark on our notice board. Read what others have written and reminisce. Memories may be read aloud by Celebrants at the Internment Ceremony.
Simply add your message to the TRIBUTES section below.
I was caught a bit unprepared at the Ceremony at Sheepdrove. When Gary and I ‘won’ Most Creative Couple in the spoof awards, I took the mic but had nothing prepared to say. Having thought about it for a couple of days this is what I would have said… I was honoured to be asked by Mark to design this memorial website and the Order Of Service leaflet for the ceremony. I originally had a design using only 5-6 photos, but Mark sent me over 130 hand picked images. When I saw them I realised that only a few photos could never capture the richness and fullness of Mark’s life. There were so many looks, hairstyles, outfits, good friends and visited places that I had never seen before in the 18 years I have known Mark. So I changed the design to a massive collage of dozens of pictures to truly represent a ‘life well lived’. Mark was taken from us way too soon, but he still managed to fit an awful lot into his life. I feel privileged to have shared 18 years of it. Sleep well, my friend xx
Mark – Thank you for being my dancing buddy – Manchester, London, especially Brixton! fun Pride Days and many more good memories. Thank you for being a great friend to my sister Barbara and Abigail (supporting in Covid times with Kunmi) Theo and Jonathan all these years. So glad to have reconnected and seen you recently with Barbara. Thinking of you today, Kunmi, your family. Here’s to dancing in the sky xx Felicity
We are relatively latecomers in the Mark & Kunmi Show. Through a mutual friend, (hello, Simon) and a production of Gods & Monsters at the Southwark Playhouse, we entered stage left around 2015 and the Clubhouse was born. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to have known Mark and we will miss him every time we see a good (or not so good) play, musical or any kind of show really, thinking that Mark would’ve loved or hated this, but always cherish the experience of just being there… and probably give it a 7.2 out of 10, just for the fun of it.
He was a lovely man , with a marvellously dry sense of humour. I will always remember the weekend of fun that we all had Cologne CSD; Mark explaining to me how to say ‘Prost’ when raising our glasses of beer in the main square, and then exploring the bars and clubs together.
One of the last times we met was at a ‘Divine Comedy’ gig in Manchester , we went to canal street and chatted about how great the gig was , and drank several beers.
Tonight I’ll raise a glass for Mark “ Prost my absent friend” xxx
It has been a privilege to walk a part of Mark’s path.
I’m not sure exactly when we first met, it may have been at the BFI, or a mutual friend’s birthday party, but he quickly extended invitations to his own events and excursions, theatre, picnics, events at his house with the generous spirit and occasional goofball humour that I grew to admire.
I always intended to see more, do more with Mark and friends in the future, but instead I will raise a glass of red at the times when he will be with us in spirit, and those will continue for a long time to come.
Day out in Aldbourne. Santa hats at the Retro Bar. New Year fireworks at ours; watching Power of the Doctor at yours. And many, many days at the BFI. It’s been a privilege to know you Mark, especially over the last year. Remember me to Gallifrey.
I have to blame Peter because he has such good taste in friends. He was the one who introduced Mark and Kunmi to my life at one of his many parties all those years ago. It was immediate that they were both people I wanted to get to know and I am so glad that I did.
What did I love about Mark. I loved his passion and his dry sense of humour. He had a big heart and we had so much fun wherever we were whether it was London, Manchester or Sitges. He was always thinking about other people.
I was always impressed by his knowledge about a wide variety of subjects but especially our shared interests. People ask the question “What did we do before google and the internet and smartphones?” Well we had Mark. He was our Google for so many things.
My thoughts go out to Kunmi and Marks family. We will continue to celebrate his life as he was so important to us.
At various points we will smile and think about something that he would have enjoyed or a quip he might have made.
He’s gone far too soon but I will remember you always.
In the words of Irving Berlin “The song is ended (but the melody lingers on)”
Nige xxx
I knew Mark in the 80’s when life was colourful and fun and
wild and free. He was kind and generous, witty and intelligent.
He was just so good to be with.
Recently he told me how much he enjoyed those days and I
told him that we were so very lucky to have had such a wonderful
time together. He will always remain in my heart.
Kind caring & thoughtful are words that spring to mind , we had wonderful times at Christmas sharing our presents together , a celebration of a life so beautifully lived.Your vibrant memory lives on you will be missed by all lots of love Victoria , Glen Adam Chloe & Ellie xxxxx
Lovely Mark
I’ve known you for many years we have had some lovely & fun times together with our family’s . Lots of happy memories & in out thoughts
Love Ann xxx❤️🌻
Brandon and I first met Mark when he was at Liverpool University through friends who were also students there. Many evenings were enjoyed socialising as a group. Mark was always a good listener and it was clear, even then, that he could empathise with others, offering kind words and emotional support when needed.
Relocation led to fewer encounters with Mark, but he kept in touch. It was fantastic being at his wedding to Kunmi and then, some weeks later, relaxing and reminiscing over a meal with them both on their visit to Liverpool.
Lovely, kind and cuddly. My best memories of Mark. Helping many times with the stuff I couldn’t do in my garden, out of the kindness of his heart … or perhaps the dictates of his stomach after wolfing down the lunches I provided. Giving me a big hug and telling me that he REALLY, REALLY loved me … after imbibing too many highly alcoholic cocktails at one of my birthday parties … aka ‘the drunkest man in the world’. Love you Mark, forever and ever. Mrs Grumpy.
Being one of my Mum’s closest friends, Mark appeared in my life even before my brain was able to form memories, comprehend friendship, or consciously experience the feeling of love.
I always liked looking at the photographs of him with my parents playing with my brothers and me when we were still babies. It is how I imagine future pictures to look like when my best friends from school come to visit me and my newly born children. You can see the sparkle of joy and happiness in those pictures which I feel stems from a friendship which doesn’t weather but grows from the individual development of both peoples lives.
The first memories I have of Mark are from the times he and Kunmi would come visit us in Dresden when I was little. Mostly I remember the feeling of joyful excitement when I heard about their arrival because I knew that the next few days will be filled with fun and action. I especially remember the time Mark cheekily added a toy-horse into my bag and watch me completely freak out with a mix of surprise and delight when I found this precious addition to my newly founded collection.
Over the years I have collected many more memories of the wonderful gifts I received from Mark: only a few examples are…
… the werewolf from Doctor Who when we visited his place the first time I remember (I was in awe of his Doctor Who collection and even more astonished that he had a figure from precisely the episode that we just watched and even more astonished that he gifted it to me without the blink of an eye),
… „Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children“ which became one of my favourite movies (even before we would open our birthday or christmas gifts labeled ‚Mark and Kunmi‘ we always knew that we had a great movie-night install for us),
… the covid-care-christmas package which Mark and Kunmi delivered to the doorstep of my student flat in Manchester when I tested positive right before I was supposed to travel down to London for the holidays (that christmas I remember eating, amongst many other tasty goods that box was filled with, a surprisingly delicious and addictive M&S Christmas pudding)
Actually, Mark is kind of the reason I came to study in Manchester since the first time I saw and fell in love with the city was on a family holiday when we came to visit him and Kunmi there. They showed us around all the important places such as gay village and I felt a sense of belonging I would only begin to understand years later.
There are many more memories with Mark from Manchester such as meeting in the park, being taken for coffee or invited out for a meal. I always felt a little bit pampered but in a wholesome way especially when we would go to Sainsbury‘s afterwards to „stock up my student fridge“ as Mark would put it and he did have a point.
But more than that, he and Kunmi showed me places of the city such as HOME or the Hulme community garden centre which I might not have discovered or visited as much without them. They took me to art exhibitions and events such as the ‚festival of light‘ which I for sure would not experience without them. When he got his diagnosis and couldn’t make it to a John Grant concert he gifted me and my friend a breathtaking musical experience we will never forget.
I would not have experienced Manchester the same way if it hadn’t been for Mark. I would also not have learned as much about my Mum‘s youth and what being a student was like ‚back in the days‘. I might have not have experienced student life in England at all if it wasn’t for him.
I am extremely grateful not only for all of these experiences but also for them to allow us to shape our own direct bond. When I introduced Mark and Kunmi to my flatmates as „the friends of my Mum“, Mark jokingly said „ Aren’t we your friends too?“ That really went into my heart because I‘d never expected our relationship to become so direct but without noticing it had and I would love my children one day call my friends their friends, despite the generational gap. Btw from that one encounter only, my flatmates became huge ‚Mark and Kunmi‘ fans and always sent out their wishes when they found out I was going to meet them.
Many have mentioned Mark’s kindheartedness, his selflessness and loving nature.
Even though I might not share as many memories with him as others closer to him, I realised how he taught me so much about friendship and love.
I never expected it, it was never on the nose, it was never his responsibility
but it is simply what he did solely through his character
and what all our memories of him will continue to do so.
Thank you for everything Mark!
Lots of love
Abi xxx
Mark was a very kind and generous man who will be much missed.
I am clearly in lovely company when I, along with so many, find this very difficult to write.
Mark touched all our lives and we hit it off from the word go.
Mark and Kunmi in the best stalls, me up in the gods and Elaine Stritch delighting us all. Our first date, with many, many more fantastic theatre outings, picnics, meals and general ridiculousness to come.
We laughed at many of the same things; the more absurd and sometimes the more basic, the better.
Our politics and general view of the world, often chimed.
And thank you, Mark, for delighting in my otherwise unacceptable language.
Your bravery, strength and stoicism has been an example to us all.
Your wit, generosity and selflessness is something we should all inspire to.
Your love, warmth and friendship remains unparalleled.
I love you, Mark, always will.
Mark and I always used to tell people that we were at school together. While this was true, we were in different form groups and were not really friends during our schooldays. One of my earliest memories of him was in the Bury Schools’ Training Orchestra in the late 1970s. He rolled up one Friday evening with a euphonium then slinked out once the practice session was over. We were both so incredibly shy in those days and barely acknowledged each other outside school.
At sixth form Philip and I concocted a mission to visit as many pubs as possible over several months during our lunch breaks. At that time Mark didn’t drink alcohol so wasn’t party to our plan; he simply sniffed un-approvingly at our mischief.
But it was during our second year at sixth form and his first year at Liverpool University that Mark and I discovered a shared love of radio and TV comedy and a similar sense of humour, often dark, mostly irreverent and frequently obscene. Mark engineered me becoming the editor of the sixth form college magazine – possibly seeing a way to earn himself some influence without shouldering the responsibility – and introduced me to the music of the Pet Shop Boys and Frankie Goes To Hollywood.
When Mark went away to Liverpool University later in 1983 I visited frequently. During his first year he entered his Patrick McGoohan phase, wearing the same clothes as the star of the TV series The Prisoner.
We toured Europe (with Philip and another friend Arne) on an Interrail ticket in 1985; Mark broke his glasses on day two of the trip and spent the rest of the holiday with them held together by sticky tape.
Subsequent visits to Liverpool over the next couple of years revealed a Billy Idol phase with Mark wearing bleached hair, a Punk-Goth phase and a taste for indy music. Clearly Mark was discovering himself. I have happy memories of the Liverpool years with Mark, Michael (his then partner) and I exploring the city, its pubs and clubs. Our regular haunts were Jodies, The Philharmonic Dining Rooms, The Casablanca Club and Ye Cracke.
When Mark and Michael moved from Liverpool to Farnham and then Surbiton I was a regular visitor to their infamous birthday parties. Both were adept at bringing together a fascinating and diverse bunch of party goers.
Mark lodged with me for a year in Stockport when he returned from London to the North West to take a new job in 1994. We drank far too much beer in the local pub and he sniggered at my abysmal efforts to learn Ju-Jitsu which he referred to as Ecky-Thump in reference a sketch by The Goodies.
Mark met Kunmi, his future husband, while in Manchester. For the following few years, Mark and Kunmi were regular theatre and concert companions in Manchester for me, Cameron and Alan. When Mark moved to Slough, Alan and I continued our theatre visits with Mark and Kunmi in London.
In September 2001 we celebrated my birthday with a meal at The Ivy in London. When I knocked over a large wine glass that shattered into pieces across the table Mark called over the waiter and told him that he, Mark, had broken the glass and was sorry. It was a characteristically selfless gesture.
Mark Christopher Terry was a fascinating character, sharply intelligent, caring and thoughtful. He was also a natural and scintillating wit with a wicked sense of humour; and that’s how I shall remember him. I have missed him and always will.
Love to Kunmi, Philip, David and Mark’s extended family.
Simon xx
I’m thinking very much of Kunmi and Mark’s family at the moment.
Mark and Kunmi were my good friends from Manchester days. We were theatre companions, shared an interest in sci-fi, and had many nights out together in Manchester – and then later on in London when I joined Kunmi on weekend train visits down south.
Mark had a sharp sense of humour, and I remember sometimes being on the receiving end of his wit and watching his eyes twinkle. He was so kind to me when I went through a difficult patch with work, and he went out of his way to offer help and advice.
There are a couple of my memories of Mark that are perhaps too personal to share here, but suffice it to say that he played an important part in my life on more than one occasion, helping me to grow and develop both at work and in my personal life. I will miss him.
My heart goes out to Kunmi and my thoughts are with him, and everyone who feels the loss of Mark right now. He has left us with sadness through his loss, but also a wealth of happy memories, and the knowledge that he lives on in us through the positive impact he has had on our lives.
Rest in peace Mark x
Memories are crowding in. Places, we’ve been, music we’ve shared or disagreed over, films and programmes we’ve analysed and debated, friends, families, parties. But apart from my memories, there are also the wonderful Mark moments that have been gifted to family and friends over the years.
He was simply, kind.
Incredibly helpful to family and friends, caring and compassionate. His sense of humour could be cutting and occasionally dark, but he hated to cause unintentional offence. He had a vast knowledge on a variety of subjects and if we couldn’t put our collective finger on some arcane fact, he could. He loved to try new things and would often impulsively leap into something. I’d be more cautious, but invariably he’d be right. And then he’d twinkle.
His patience, sat on lots of Blackpool trams, often with a bucket of coffee, was legendary. He took the time to learn what the models were, but also had a tongue in cheek attitude between us when indulging my passion. He was less inclined to patience with inanimate objects, and many an assembly item, slow acting laptop or cranky car would be “F” bombed into compliance.
People were so important to him. Friends spanning different interests could all be brought together by something he did or said. Often, if we’d done something enjoyable once he’d want to make it a tradition and it invariably was. We used to go out for a meal as a group to celebrate my birthday, but when austerity was hitting he thought why not make it a picnic instead so people weren’t worrying about the cost. Everyone brings their own snacks and drinks and we just mix it all up. From that simple, thoughtful idea sprung one of our great traditions of the summer. Last years barbecue at home was another event Mark wanted to be a tradition.
Generous in time and deeds, his meticulous approach, preparedness and amazing memory would often spin a throwaway comment he’d heard months previously into something wonderful for someone at a birthday, Christmas or just for the hell of it. His spirit and character shone even brighter during his diagnosis. It’s been said by others, but he was truly inspirational to them both before and after. He was rarely in low spirits post diagnosis. Determined to do as much as possible in whatever time remained. He said there was no point being angry with the disease, it happens, and he would swiftly move onto something else. Occasionally the enormity of it all would hit us and we’d have our “moments” together.
He loved the visitors coming round to the house and us putting on a high tea for them, his Mum and Dad’s Eternal Beau crockery proudly utilised. The outpouring of love and affection from everyone was often overwhelming and our wedding last July was a massive boost to him. His stamina on the day spoke to his strength of character in making sure everyone had not only a good time, but a uniquely memorable one. He was delighted that so many family and friends were able to attend in such a perfect venue with so many thoughtful personal and video messages.
When reflecting on his illness, the thought of those who were left behind pained him most rather than thoughts of himself. Always selfless he wanted to make everything as smooth as possible for everyone. Even from the hospice he sent me some recipes for things he’d been making that I’d found delicious.
Thankfully he got to do a lot of the things he loved doing in the last few months especially the hugely enjoyable honeymoons or mini moons as we dubbed them. And though latterly it may have wiped him out for the following day, he burned bright with his powerful energy and determination at everything he did. We were at the theatre and meeting authors at book signings right into early February.
Saying I’ll miss him doesn’t even begin to describe it. In my head I still hear us mentioned as Mark and Kunmi (note the billing). The whole world has upended. It was horribly sudden and though we knew there would be an end date we had hopes that it was a few months in the future, not weeks. We had plans.
For twenty eight years we spoke almost every single day. If he was on a works outing, it could be a tipsy train journey back and then a text would appear before falling asleep. But the conversation and discussion was always there in some form. We always had either lots to say on what we’d dub any old nonsense (actually a far franker word) or comfortable moments of silent bliss just enjoying each others company.
Alas, now the conversation is one sided.
However, I and family and friends have so many memories now resurfacing, the lovely bright boy may have left this earthly plain, but his consciousness, guidance and love is out there amongst the stars watching and waiting until we are reunited.
It’s said the total energy of the universe is constant. So Mark has essentially regenerated. Not quite in the manner of his favourite TV show, Doctor Who, but any tribute to his life and legacy would have to name check the show for him somehow.
Thankful and lucky he’s been in our lives, albeit ever so briefly.
Sweet dreams, my love. Run fast and free through those sunflowers. 🌻🌻🌻🌊
Kunmi x
👨🏻🤝👨🏿
Mark suddenly appeared in my life as if he’d always been there. Like all good mates.
He didn’t materialise in a blue box, but if I’m right in a pub – the Fitzroy Tavern, just north of Tottenham Court Road tube station. Like the best of them, Mark was unique – a brilliant witty chum with a passion for the greatest show in the galaxy – along with his loving and fabulous sidekick Kunmi.
And what great adventures we all had.
From Doctor Who screenings at the BFI – the front row seat a must for Mark and Kunmi – with the Subwave Network of Doctor Who fans to a shared passion for the odd piece of both mainstream and fringe theatre with the Clubhouse chums.
And the appreciation that any theatrical event is best assisted by a nice glass of red, both before the play and at the interval. Even more so if the show was a stinker.
Which they rarely were – Mark had great taste.
Didn’t we all have such laughs with Mark?
Picnics in Vauxhall and Hyde Park were always a hoot and of course they shall continue to be. I suspect Mark would want us to carry on.
Mark knew the value of a good t-shirt, a cutting joke delivered with brilliant timing and a hug of moral support just when you needed it.
My heart goes out to Kunmi and Mark’s family.
He was a fantastic friend to all of us.
And it’s really impossible to believe he’s not here now.
But I’d prefer to think it’s just the interval.
We’ll see you for Act Two Mark.
Simon x
Our dear nephew Mark a beautiful person. My sister Sylvia and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Mark . Mark was so caring ,thoughtful and loving, he put others first and always remembered our birthdays . He was especially kind to his cousin Elena when we met up he always made sure she was looked after. A beautiful person gone to soon.
Uncle Mark,
Thank you for everything. You were an amazing uncle to my sisters, cousins, and myself.
I always thought Mark was so interesting. When I was younger, we bonded over our shared interest in Doctor Who. I loved talking to him about it, he knew pretty much everything about the show, and I was so intrigued by the weird and wonderful facts of the Doctor Who universe. I remember when me, my sisters and my dad would go down to visit and stay at his house, memories of seeing Doctor Who collectibles that filled shelves from top to bottom stands out for some reason! His collection was truly impressive.
I have the fondest memories of Uncle Mark and Kunmi taking us to the theatre to watch shows every year when we were younger. It was something I always looked forward to around Christmas time. Sometimes we even met a couple of the performers after the show (in true Mark and Kunmi style of course). One time before watching a show we bumped into a couple of life-size Daleks in Media City (they must have known Mark was coming), and we all posed in front of them for a picture. I’m really glad we have these photos to look back on, to remember all the good times. Mark was really good at this, he made sure we all took family pictures together at the Terry family reunion each summer and these photos I will cherish forever. As my sister mentioned in her tribute, Marks outlook on life was wonderful and he just wanted everyone around him to be okay.
Dear Uncle Mark, you were kindhearted, compassionate, considerate, selfless, intriguing, and just simply wonderful. I will keep thinking of the good times. You will be deeply missed and always remembered.
Thank you for everything.
Love Sophie
I was lucky to call Mark my uncle. My cousins, sisters and myself are extremely grateful for all the memories we shared with Mark over the course of our lives at family BBQs, theatre shows and trips to London. We will always remember his great sense of humour, kindness and big hugs.
One of my favourite memories was when Kunmi and Mark took Jessica, Sophie and myself to explore around Media City.
Mark wanted to get a picture of us next to the Daleks that we came across, where he insisted we posed like one of them – a funny picture to look back on now!
More recently, at the wedding my sisters and I shared a heartfelt conversation with Mark, his words and beautiful outlook on life will be forever remembered and cherished.
To uncle Mark,
Thank you…
for being a great uncle,
for providing the jokes and laughs,
for the impressive Doctor Who facts,
for the family group photos,
for your kindness,
for spreading your love,
for all the happy memories,
And most importantly… thank you for being you.
You will always be in our hearts ❤️
Love
Isobel xxx
Where to start? Lots of happy memories of Mark Terry scattered over the last couple of decades. Including the kindness of his multiple visits during my stay in the local hospital.
I already miss the geeky chats and outings with Mark – Doctor Who, Doctor Who collectables (old and new), Star Trek, Blake’s 7, Gerry Anderson, The League of Gentlemen, MR James ghost stories (for Christmas) and vintage horror. And the garden birds during lockdown. And his soulmate, Kunmi, was never far from his mind – “quite right too.”
His humour was pretty dry. He didn’t mince his words if he thought something was really rubbish – I can hear him now and he didn’t use the word ‘rubbish’ (you’ll know what I mean).
Gone far too soon.
I am very sorry to hear that Mark has passed. Reading Kunmi’s emails and looking at the pictures, it is obvious that he was surrounded by love until the very end.
I never met Mark (I am friends with Kunmi since our college days) but he was clearly thoroughly decent and likeable and will be deeply missed by all that knew him. I think we can safely say that Mark and Kunmi made the very best of the remaining time they had together to an amazing degree. A life well lived and a man well loved.
I have never been very good at dealing with the loss of people I care about, but sadly that seems to be a more prominant feature of life as we get older. My religous/spiritual beliefs are all mixed up, however I am convinced that we get to meet up again with the people that really matter to us who have passed away, just like there are people who I am convinced that I have known before when I meet them for the first time – I think these two things are related (in my strange mind anyway). This is my coping mechanism and it helps me to make sense of both the happy and sad aspects of life.
I will be thinking of Mark & Kunmi and all who care for them over the coming days.
Always remember Mark and his love of music. We shared our love of the band Faithless. We danced to Insomnia, with Kunmi, Friends and Family at the wedding. I remember whispering to Mark -it felt like being free … for a few moments. He agreed. Now Mark is free. So in the words of Faithless….. I lift you off the earth mundane and glum
Out of solar system where you passed the sun’Til all the fear in your heart is gone and so on……. Rip Mark x
Mark was our next door neighbour for over 20 years. He was shy but we enjoyed the occasional chat over the garden wall. He was a good neighbour who would help us without hesitation if we asked. When the Covid pandemic struck he knocked our door and asked if he could get food shopping for us, that was much appreciated.
Goodbye Mark, we will miss you, and our thoughts will be with you on the 21st April.`
We will see you on the other side!
Dave and Pam Davies
Mark was my uncle, and I have many happy memories of him. When I was younger we had many summer BBQs and bonfire nights together, and I fondly remember trips to London to visit the British Museum and see the sights. As a child, it was so exciting to sleep over at his house in the ‘toy attic’ – the spare bedroom which had every Doctor Who collectible imaginable neatly arranged on floor-to-ceiling shelves. Mint in box, of course!
More recently, Mark had given me invaluable support both practical and emotional, and for that I am so grateful.
From the earliest Christmas I can remember, when you visited us in Rushden, to the last hug we shared at the wonderful Thames Hospice (and everything in between): Uncle Mark, I will always remember you.
I’m afraid I feel a bit of a fraud writing something here as I didn’t know Mark, however, I was (and still am) a friend of Kunmi’s during our stint together at Oldham tax office. From speaking with Kunmi and reading the messages here, it is clear that Mark was much loved by his many friends, his family and by my friend, Kunmi. I extend my heartfelt sympathies to all those who knew and loved him ❤️.
A very special person has left our lives but will never leave our memories. I am incredibly honoured to have known Mark. I am very sad and will miss him so much, as will my children to whom he and Kunmi were like uncles. Never missed a birthday, the presents were always spot on, even took food parcels to my daughter, Abigail, in Christmas qurantine. He was selfless, charming, loving, such a support to me in hard times, making me laugh, writing, chatting, being constructive. Not to mention putting up with the idiocies of a young Barbara when we were at Liverpool Uni together.
My heart goes out to you Kunmi, to you ‘little brother’ Phil, to Dave and all Mark’s family and friends.
Thank you for everything, dearest Mark xx
For my dear cousin Mark
It is so difficult to find the words when we are so sad and heartbroken at your passing. You fought such a brave and dignified fight to the very end and we are so proud of you .
When I think of Mark I think of his beautiful soul , a true gentleman , kind , caring , gentle and selfless with a tremendous love , love for life , love for his family and friends and love for his true love Kumni ,
We have so many memories which we will treasure always .
We send our heartfelt condolences to Kumni , David and Philip and my mum ( Aunty Sylvia )would like to convey her deep love for you all .
Rest in peace my dear cousin and shine like the true star you are ,
We take comfort in the knowledge that your beautiful soul , the memories and love does not die and will be with us always .
In the swirl of emotions we all feel when a much loved family member and friend passes, our overwhelming thoughts of Mark are of a person who made the most of his life. He always acted with great dignity and showed immense love and support to Kumni, his family and his friendship circle.
He will be missed we suspect more than he would ever have expected!
To Kumni, Philip, David and their families we send our heart felt condolences, and look forward to sharing a few stories and tears with you all later this month, when we all take a little time out to celebrate Mark and a life well lived.
I’ve been finding this hard to write as it brings the reality of Mark’s passing home. How can I sum up the entirety of Mark’s life and the support and love he has constantly provided to his loved ones and many, many friends? He’s always been with me for our 58 years through good times and bad ( mainly mine ) and was proud to be my ‘big brother’, by 35 minutes. I’ll miss the late night drinking sessions watching his favourite programmes and talking about the past, present and future. I’ll miss his thoughtfulness and his amazing ability to keep family and people connected over time and space. I’ll miss hearing of the holidays, the theatre trips, meeting the celebs of screen and stage. I’ll miss the way he devoted his whole being to Kunmi, such a powerful love is a rare thing. I’ll miss his acerbic wit and his dinner parties! To my beautiful, loving twin brother xx
Mark’s legacy will be the love he leaves behind.
Phil – my brother.
May I pass on my huge thanks as a brother for everything you have done for Mark, family and friends. You have done more than anyone…….not just to respect your brother but to show us all what selflessness actually means.
You are an outstanding individual.
Your love for Mark is unmatched in thought, deed or intent by anybody.
I am uniquely gifted to have you as my brother.
Our parents – June and Ted were so very proud of you both and to the very end of their lives loved you both as much as it is possible for any parents to love their sons.
All of your family that have known you since you were born
so many years ago know the special bond that you have always had with Mark. You will carry this forwards for all time.
A tribute to Mark, for everyone that truly understands , is in fact also a tribute to Phil – twin brother and unmatched in his love for Mark.
So , Phil and Mark-my twin brothers a tribute to you from David , Rachel, Ben, Emma, Jennifer, Jessica, Will, Sophie, Luke, Isobel, James, Sylvia,John, ,Julian,Claire,Liz.John, and families. Helen, Susanna,Elena,Jose and family. Stephen, Barbara, Kath, Michael, Dave,Christopher, and families. Phillip , Manami, Alison and family.
In deed not just in word.
David Terry
To Gary and Mark –
May I just pass on a huge thank you for everything you have done to support Mark over the years and since his passing.
It is hugely appreciated by the Terry, Kay and Hilton families.
You will always be remembered by us for your selflessness, compassion and respect to our brother and family member since his birth in October 1964 and his passing in March 2023.
It has not gone unnoticed by myself and family that you have so generously contributed to the Thames Hospice cause.
The hospice went well above the call of duty to help Mark when he needed it most. Thank you for recognising that care also with his family.
Thank you.
David.
My beautiful cousin Mark ♥️
I have so many happy memories which feel my heart with warmth. The excitement as children of the wonderful visits from Mark, David and Philip, Uncle Ted and Aunty June in Mallorca.
Our Granny Annie, when she lived in Beare Green used to frequently …. actually every time I visited, speak fondly about her Grandchildren but in particular about Mark. She always enjoyed Mark’s visits and preparing his vegetarian meals when he visited (I’m sure he got the same meal every time).
Mark never forgot a birthday!
One day we were celebrating Emily’s Birthday in London which we posted on Facebook and to our surprise Mark and Kunmi visited us in the restaurant to deliver Emily’s birthday card! It made our day.
Mark provided frequent updates on Facebook of the crooked house in Windsor. This always made me smile. He knew I love this quirky house.
David, Mark and Philip the love, strength and care between you shined through.
Mark was a warm, kind and thoughtful person who I’m proud to call my cousin.
We love you for ever Susana, Andrew, Emily and Grace
I was at school with Mark and Phil many years ago, avoiding PE and Games lessons at every opportunity but I always admired him with his wry sense of humour and wow, was he a smart cookie achieving grades I could only dream of. We lost touch for years but got back in contact through Facebook and exchanged messages on messenger. The last 12 months have shown to us all what dignity, strength and determination Mark had. He fought this terrible illness bravely and was a true inspiration, just getting on with it and making the very most of each day. He really taught us such a valuable lesson in life and I was proud to have known him. RIP buddy x
For my brother Mark
Saying goodbye to someone for a final time is never an easy thing to do.
Over the last few years my brother Phil and I have, with our family, said goodbye to our mother June , our father Ted and now , today, to Mark.
I am sure that everyone that knows Mark will have their memories and fond thoughts to share in tribute.
In turn, I would like you all to understand something of Mark’s thoughts when he was close to the end of his life and we talked about the things that mattered to him most.
Now I’m sure the notions of Dr Who , Star Trek and Daleks would spring to mind. But in reality what mattered most to him was knowing that everyone around him would be ok.
Mark’s selflessness defined him in all the years I have known him and his care for you all will define his true legacy for years to come. In turn, I am sure that you will all respect what Mark stood for by demonstrating consideration and empathy in your actions for others when they need your support.
Mark’s family, the Terrys, the Kays and the Hiltons have always understood this about him and will always remember him with love in perpetuity.
So, Mark as I told you today for the very last time thank you for being you always. You will always be loved and you will always be remembered.
Mark. Your life was a blessing & your memory a treasure. You touched our lives & will stay in our hearts forever ♥️ Fly high dear nephew. The hearts that love you are the ones that will not forget. Good night shining star xxx
Mark, your life was a blessing and your memory a treasure. You touched our lives and stay in our hearts forever. Fly high dear nephew the hearts that loved you are the ones that will never forget. Good night shining star xxx
Mark, i was proud and honoured to be your uncle.
Your passing has certainly made this world a lesser place. Your achievements, outlook on life, warmth and friendliness over the years have been amazing. I always looked forward to receiving the postcards that you and Kunmi sent of your travels overseas.
The last time we spoke, you were recalling fond memores you had of times spent, many years ago at Randolph road with Grannie, Grandad and Scamp, great memories indeed.
I’m so pleased that you you were able to to tie the knot with, as you told me, the love of your life..Kunmi.
I can’t find further words to express how much of a loss it is to me, your family and all your many friends.
I hope you have found the peace and tranquility that you truly deserve.
Lots of love from Uncle Stephen and Kath.
Mark was my uncle. Sophie, Isobel and I are so lucky to have had him as our uncle, alongside Philip and Kunmi. I will always remember him for his kindness and brilliant sense of humour. He really was an amazing person.
Mark and Kunmi took me and my sisters on yearly trips to the theatre, which we loved and have many fond memories of. They both shared their love of Doctor Who with us and I was always fascinated with the amount of Doctor Who action figures that Mark had at his house.
I’ve always loved London and was always amazed at how well Mark knew London. My dad drove us down to Mark’s house in Slough many times when we were younger, where we visited Lego Land in Windsor and would have lots of BBQs in the garden that he loved. I’ll always remember going on my first proper trip to London when I was younger with Mark, Kunmi, my Grandma and Grandad. I remember my excitement at exploring all the sights and having Mark and Kunmi as my own personal tour guides! When I was about 18 and went into London on my own for the first time, Mark drew me a map on a piece of paper from his memory, with precise directions and pictures of the route I wanted to take, making sure all landmarks were included. I followed it and ended up exactly where I wanted to be and then back safely in Slough.
We have lots of family photos to look back on and smile. Thank you Mark, for all of the trips, experiences and memories. Always in our hearts ❤️ Lots of love xxx
It can’t be overstated just how much we appreciate the time we spent together with Mark, especially at our recent wedding in November. On that day Mark and Kunmi brought us so much joy. It’s obvious that Mark brought so much happiness to so many other people too throughout his life.
Since we came back home we had been messaging Mark about the cherry blossoms. Here in Japan their blooming is a huge annual event and every day the TV gives a report on the percentage of bloom.
We know that he liked being in his and Kunmi’s garden so had told him that we would send him some photos of the cherry blossoms when they bloomed, which we were thankfully able to do.
As fate would have it, the day that the blossoms reached their full 100 percent full bloom was the very day that Mark left us. A few short hours after he passed it started to rain in Tokyo and the petals fell off and gently floated to the ground – gradually returning to the earth.
The Japanese see the short but vibrant and beautiful blooming of the cherry blossoms as a reminder of the transience of life. In the grand scheme of things it’s too short, but while they are here they bring so much colour and joy to all those who encounter them. One can’t help noticing the similarities between that and Mark’s life. It’s almost as if they bloomed in perfect timing as a tribute to him on that day.
We know that every year when they come out in full force our thoughts will naturally turn to Mark. It’s a nice way to remember him and one that we are sure he would approve of.
Dear Mark, we wish you the very best of luck – wherever you are – and for whatever new adventure comes next.
Lots of love, appreciation and respect from Philip and Manami. 🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸Xx
Mark, my lovely big Cousin loved to keep in touch, share family photos and family history with us.
Our last get together was a day out at the Manchester Airport viewing park recently where Mark pointed out we are now a family of plane spotters!.
We had the most amazing time and so glad we got together that day. My little boy Toby was over the moon he got a gift off Mark & Kunmi too.
Mark you are sadly missed and always in my thoughts, you made this world a little brighter for all.
Lots of love
Little cousin Alison ❤️❤️ xx
Mark and Phil are both my friends since our school days and I have been inspired by Mark in the way he has squared up to his illness and privileged to know him. There is a prayer by R L Stephenson I think its The Sunday Prayer which is beautiful and one line I think of that says that if the day is marked for sorrow then we are strong to endure it. Mark has showed us his ability to endure and he has had Kunmi at his side. Xxxxxxx
Kunmi is my uncle and I also saw Mark as equal to that, I can’t actually remember a time in my life without them together (I’m 31)
Christmas was our day, the one day we had together if we didn’t manage to see each other, looking out the window waiting for the car to pull up, a symbol of tradition and sentiment
Also memories of going down to Windsor with my new blue hair and watching Chitty Chitty Bang Bang seeing the London sights
Lovely and warming memories ❤️ xxxx
Always had to time to chat to this big awkward Ozzy bloke. So glad I got back i touch.
My condolences to Kunmi, Philip, David and all of Mark’s extended family. It’s been a long time since I have been in contact with Mark. We were housemates for a few years in Surbiton when we were in our twenties. Many evenings of silly games and dinner parties,
I met Mark in October 1986 and we went out together for just over 8 years living in Liverpool, Farnham and Surbiton. During that time, we had some great holidays with Egypt standing out as being particularly memorable. It’s nice to see those holidays reflected in the picture gallery.
If I had to pick out one trait to remember Mark by it would be his wicked sense of humour and his acerbic wit. I was trying to teach him how to drive and he was struggling to get the car into gear. (In fairness, it was a dodgy gearbox). He was having a real go at my car and I was getting quite defensive and I said “Insult my car, insult me”. Without skipping a beat or taking a breath he replied “Fine. You have a fat car”! Sure I was not amused at the time but over time it has become an often told funny story. Soon after that, pretty sure we paid for driving lessons!
I may not have spoken to Mark for 25 years, but the news of his passing is no less painful.
My deepest condolences to Kunmi, David, Jennifer, Philip, Rachel and the extended Terry family. I was lucky enough to be part of that family in the past so I know how close you are and how Mark’s death will be affecting you all.
Much love at this difficult time.
Michael
x
Mark and I are incredibly honoured to have been asked to create this website for Mark. This is the least of what we can do but also a small way to help celebrate him. We will post more later but for now we hope this helps to start the tributes. We love you Mark. ♥️
Mark and Gary xx