William Temple ‘one of the strongest characters ever to have lived in the Fountain’
William Temple has been described as one of the strongest characters ever to have lived in the Fountain following his recent passing.
A respected historian, community leader and musician, Mr. Temple passed away at Altnagelvin on August 7.
Jim Goodman of the Britannia Concert Band of which ‘Willie’ was a member for seventy years said he had ‘never let the band down in its musical performance’.
The William King Memorial Flute Band said that with his passing the Fountain had ‘lost one of the strongest characters ever to have lived in the area’.
Mr. Temple was born in Gordon Place, off the Dark Lane, in the Long Tower in 1937, before moving with his family to London Street in 1938 and Corporation Street in 1943.
In 1969 he moved to live in his ancestral home, the Fountain, from where his father hailed.
A pharmacist by trade he ran a chemist’s on the Abercorn Road for 30 years.
Mr. Temple was steeped in the lore of the area and frequently lectured on local history.
In 2020 he published ‘Fountain of Life’, a homage to his beloved estate.
He was a founder of The Thiepval Gallery.
Jim Goodman, on behalf of the Britannia Band, stated: “It is with great sadness that the members of the Britannia Concert Band have learned of the passing of their esteemed member since the 1950s, William Temple.
"Willie, as he was known to us, first appeared with the band as a cymbal player and soon after moved to the cornet section. He was always self-effacing, claiming that he wasn’t worthy of being called a cornet player. But we knew better. William quietly prepared for concerts, competitions, church services and parades and never let the band down in its musical performance.”
Derek Moore, on behalf of the William King, said: “The Fountain has lost one of the strongest characters ever to have lived in the area, William Temple.
“A man of great local knowledge, and nobody’s fool in a debate. A chemist, a bandsman, a member of the loyal orders, and someone who knew the value of community.”
He is mourned by his children Trevor, Anne, Richard and Julie and wider circle.
Mr. Temple was laid to rest in Ballyoan cemetery after a funeral service in Carlisle Road Presbyterian Church on Sunday.