On the 1st May 2024, we gathered in Alloway Church to celebrate the life of a remarkable man, William "Bill" Kerr. Bill was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, friend, and pillar of the community who touched the lives of so many with his kindness, creativity, humour and quiet faith.
Born and raised in Ardrossan, Bill always stayed true to his roots. He attended Eglinton and Winton Primary before going on to Ardrossan Academy. Bill was a creative soul from a young age, gifted with artistic talents and a sharp mind. It's no surprise he chose to pursue architecture, a challenging field requiring dedication and vision.
Bill's professional achievements were many. He worked diligently for Robert Rennie in Saltcoats, KY Henderson, and most notably, for Strathclyde Council in Glasgow. There he focused on designing and constructing schools, including several in Ayr, Ayr Academy, Mainholm Academy and Carrick Academy. These were projects Bill took great pride in. His was a busy, committed career, but Bill always maintained a modest, gentlemanly manner.
It was through his love of singing that Bill met the love of his life, Jean, at the choir in Ardrossan in June 1955. They married in July 1959 in Stevenston Church and went on to share a beautiful 64 year marriage blessed with two sons, Colin and Andrew. Bill was a devoted family man who always put his loved ones first.
Bill's faith was central to his life from the very beginning. He served as an officer in the Boys' Brigade, an ordained Elder in Stevenston, and as the dedicated property convenor here at Alloway Church for many years. He worked tirelessly behind the scenes, helping with pantomimes and bringing his artistic flair to designing the scenery. Bill didn't seek the limelight, but his contributions were invaluable.
In his later years, Bill continued to enrich the community and pursue his passions. He was an active member of the local Probus Club, a staunch supporter alongside Jean of the Alloway Burns Club, and a gifted landscape painter who generously shared his talents, even running his own popular art class for some 20 years. He had a great love and heart for working with children as well, helping with many a lively holiday club at the church even in his 70s and 80s.
Throughout his 92 years, Bill faced challenges, including the loss of his hearing which was difficult for him. But he retained a positive spirit, good humour, and interest in the people and happenings around him until the very end. In the last few months as his health declined, Bill received wonderful care at Greenan Manor for which the family is so grateful.
While we are saddened by Bill's passing, we give thanks for the inspiring life he led - a life of service, faith, creativity, and love. He saw the beauty in the world and the best in others, and he made all our lives richer. May we honour Bill's memory by embracing those same qualities. And may the God of peace comfort you, until you are reunited with Bill in eternal glory.