Former Tipton and Coseley Building Society director dies aged 82

A retired Black Country business leader and community stalwart has died aged 82 following a 15-year battle with cancer.

The proud family of Stuart John Eaton, from Northway in Sedgley, today paid a loving tribute to an "inspirational, devoted family man".

Mr Eaton was told two months ago that the cancer, which had spread to his lungs, was terminal shortly after celebrating 60 years of marriage to his childhood sweetheart.

Mr Eaton worked for the Tipton and Coseley Building Society for many years.

He worked his way up to become general manager and secretary of the company. He was a director until 1997, devoting nearly 39 years of service to the company and influencing its development.

He was also a former chairman of the Midland Association of Building Societies — a role which he was committed to for many years.

Mr Eaton devoted many years helping out charitable organisations including Tipton Rotary Club, Tipton Charitable Medical Trust and Tipton Scouts.

He was also in the Fellowship Of The Services as he served in the navy during the Second World War and also served on the bench as a magistrate for many years at West Bromwich Magistrates' Court.

He was also former chairman of Tipton Harriers.

His son Chris, who wrote Cliff Richard's Christmas hit Saviour's Day, today said: "He was a man of commitment and generosity."

A funeral and thanksgiving service will take place at All Saints Church in Sedgley at 3pm on November 22.