On Friday, our beloved Grandpa, Stuart Nourse, passed away peacefully with his family by his side. He was 83 years old and lived a rich, fulfilling life full of adventure, service, and love. To me, he was a real-life Action Man—always full of stories from his travels and a spirit that inspired awe. We will miss him terribly.
These powerful words from my uncle capture Grandpa’s life and spirit perfectly:
“Today would have been my father’s 84th birthday. Sadly, a few days ago, surrounded by his family, he passed away at Bournemouth Hospital.
His life began in another time and place—in what was then Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), where he was born the son of a tea planter. As an expat during the final years of the British Empire, he lived a unique and storied childhood. He later attended boarding school in Cornwall and spent cherished time with his grandparents in Bude.
At 17, inspired by a school careers talk about the Merchant Navy, he decided to return to Sri Lanka the only way he could—by sea. He trained extensively and sailed the world aboard oil tankers, eventually earning the prestigious ‘Master Mariner’ qualification.
He married Marilyn, our mother, and together they built a happy life over their 60-year marriage. They raised three children and were later blessed with seven grandchildren.
His 27-year career with the RNLI was a true highlight. From coxswain of a roaming lifeboat in the rough Scottish seas, to inspector of lifeboats, and eventually a key figure at RNLI headquarters, his passion for helping others was unwavering. Even after retirement, he continued to serve—volunteering with Age Concern and at the hospital, just as his father did, and welcoming visitors at church every Monday up until just a few months ago.
Though memory loss marked his final years, he never lost his sparkle, his sense of humor, or his warm smile.
Fair winds and calm seas on your final voyage, Dad.”
Rest in peace, Sailor. You will be missed more than words can say. ⚓🕊️
