Tributes have flooded for prolific Bushey music man Raymond Coffer, who has passed away at the age of 80.
A larger-than-life character in every way, and warrior for local issues, Raymond described himself as “the only socialist in the village”. Even in retirement from several decades at the forefront of the national music scene, Raymond would busy himself with local issues and initiatives, not least the annual Bushey Performing Arts Festival.
An accountant by trade having qualified in 1967, it was his love of a melody saw him slip into the music scene at the start of the 1980s. He would subsequently go on to manage chart-topping bands including Smashing Pumpkins, Cocteau Twins, The Sundays, and Ian McCulloch (Echo and the Bunnymen).
In retirement, he stepped away from the industry, and in 2011 earned a PhD from the University of London in Germanic and Romance Studies.
Health issues last year led to the diagnosis of a rare blood condition, and in March, a fall and subsequent infection required hospital attention at Watford General. Although Raymond returned home at the start of April, sadly his strength deteriorated. He passed away peacefully on April 30th.
Raymond leaves behind his wife Roberta – with whom he recently celebrated their 58th anniversary – son Nicholas, and grandchild Archie, who he adored.
His personality, style – and, of late, trademark red glasses – will be missed by so many.
Photo: raymondcoffer Instagram
0 Comments