Royal Green Jackets tribute to Jim

Tributes have been paid to a former member of the Royal Green Jackets after his sudden death aged 70.

James McQuaid, known as Jim, of Brandwood, Oldbury, served in the same regiment at the same time as his father, also called James, in Cyprus, Germany and Egypt.

He died in Sandwell Hospital last Tuesday after suffering bronchopneumonia and lung disease, leaving wife, Laraine, four children and 12 grandchildren.

Jim, born at Glencorse Barracks, Edinburgh, signed up with the Green Jackets after his father was posted to Germany.

Laraine, 68, and Jim, married at Akryl Church, Smethwick, on June 10 1961.

When he left the Army, Jim, who worked as a security officer, became a sergeant in the South Staffordshire Regiment of the Army Cadet Force. He was based at the Harry Mitchell Leisure Centre, Smethwick, where he would teach recruits. He was also a talented bugle player.

"I never realised how truly loved and respected Jim was until his death," added Laraine. "He will be greatly missed."

His funeral is at Powke Lane Crematorium, Rowley Regis on Thursday (12.15pm) followed by a wake at Brandwood Labour Club, Tame Road (1pm). Flowers are welcome. A Royal Green Jacket Flag and Jim's medals will adorn the coffin, while two buglers from the Green Jackets will play The Last Post.