Tribute to Peter Everington by Alison Wood, member of St Dunstan’s Church, East Acton, June 6, 2025.
In my mind, the Everingtons have always been part of St Dunstan’s, and shared their lives with all of us in many ways. Peter and Jean loved people and were interested in everyone. I was invited to their house maybe 20 years ago to meet new congregation member Betty. Just recently, I saw Peter off to visit Patrick and Meg to talk about CS Lewis. I can’t believe there is anyone in St Dunstan’s he didn’t know. I wonder if that also extends to the whole world! I’m reminded of the friendship he had with Jonathan Rugman in his international reporting career. Through Peter, I’ve attended a talk at Chatham House, a reception at the Jamaican High Commission, and taken part in International Peace Circles with Initiatives of Change. He brought the world to us.
Of course, Peter’s Christian faith was central to all he did. We greatly missed his wisdom when he insisted on retiring from preaching, saying he didn’t want to become old and slow. He was quick to thank and praise speakers and musicians involved in church services, often sending an email with interesting comments. We could always rely on him for encouragement and advice. I remember once asking him something about people speaking in tongues, to which his response was a philosophical “these things happen”. He was keen to share his faith with everyone, always asking how we would invite the people in newly built houses in the parish to come to church. Last December, we sang some carols at an outdoor community event in the new Verdean estate. Peter came along. He borrowed the mic from the DJ, to tell everyone there that they lived in St Dunstan’s parish, and were welcome in our family.
And Peter was always generous with time, money and hospitality. When I asked for people to give Myrle a lift to church, he was quick to offer. And I know, because I’m church treasurer, that if someone from church gave him any practical help (like Geoffrey fixing his computer), he would make a donation in thanks.
When we organised a card for the Westalls’ 10 years with us, Peter wrote in it “Thank you Jon for stretching our hearts and minds, and Rachel for always being there when needed”. I think St Dunstan’s could offer those thanks back to him now.
