Sudden death of Tim David MBG Chair 2007-2011

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Published: Thursday, 15 May 2014 13:40

We were extremely shocked to hear of the sudden death of Tim David, Past Chairman of MBG 2007 -2011 on 12 May and we all send our deepest sympathies to Rosie and the children Piers and Isobel.

Tim joined us as Chair from a background in the Diplomatic Service including much time spent in Africa, not least as High Commissioner to Zambia. So he brought experience, knowledge, wisdom and diplomacy with a strong sense of humour all of which played a vital role in the work of a small community based organisation in Wiltshire, linked to a Muslim community in West Africa.

Tim was Chair at a time when MBG did not have a Director and therefore his role was considerably broader and more time consuming. He, and of course by implication his family, showed extraordinary commitment to MBG which involved a minimum of weekly visits to the office, regular evening meetings and trips to The Gambia where Tim was held in great respect by our partners in TARUD and by the community members with whom he very quickly established a warm and effective relationship.

A major legacy that Tim left as a result of his time with MBG was ensuring that our policy documents were in order. He brought a professionalism to the organisation that was much needed.

All of us in MBG feel a great sense of loss. Messages have come in from Gunjur expressing solidarity with Tim's family and with us in the office and the wider MBG membership.

Buba Touray, President of the Kombo Sillah Association, writes:

"We have learnt with deep sorrow the passing of Mr Tim David who was your friend and professional colleague for the last decade or so in the work of peace building between the communities of the North and South. We equally feel the loss in that a man of his standing, understanding, vision and commitment to the course of those less fortunate, and for the prospect of greater peace and understanding among the peoples and different faith groups must definitely be felt by any peace loving people of the world."

The funeral is being held on Tuesday 27 May, 2.30pm, All Saints Church, Oaksey, Wiltshire.

No flowers, but donations can be made for a charity working in El Savador.