David Gerard Hayes (Shallow House, 1967–1971)

11 May 1953 – June 2025

We are deeply saddened to share the news of the passing of David Gerard Hayes, a proud Old Honitonian who attended Allhallows from January 1967 to July 1971 as a member of Shallow House.

During his years at Allhallows, David was known for his quiet leadership, good humour, and steady commitment across school life. He rose through the ranks to become a House Monitor in 1969 and a House Prefect in 1970, earning the respect of both his peers and his housemasters. He was academically accomplished, achieving C.S.E. and G.C.E. qualifications, including “O” and “AO” Levels, between 1969 and 1971. Beyond the classroom, he was a keen sailor—though, by his own admission, perhaps not the most proficient one—and had great admiration for Bill Preston, his housemaster in Shallow and head of sailing.

David represented the school in the 3rd XV rugby team and was active in shooting, taking part in miniature range competitions, including with Country Life in 1971. A dedicated member of the Combined Cadet Force, he served with distinction as Staff Sergeant, earning his Army Proficiency Certificate in 1968 and attending notable training camps at Wyke Regis and the Arduous Training Camp in 1970.

After leaving Allhallows in 1971, David went on to a distinguished career in the British Army, serving in the Brigade of Gurkhas and rising to the rank of Colonel. His service earned him a CBE for his exceptional contributions to the Brigade and the welfare of Gurkha veterans. Fluent in Nepali, David played a pivotal role in advocating for improved pensions and welfare for retired Gurkha soldiers—a legacy that transformed countless lives.

One friend recalls trekking in Nepal with David in his capacity as a Trustee of the Gurkha Welfare Trust, where his compassion and humility shone through. On one memorable occasion, he encountered villagers whose lives had been directly changed by the pension reforms he had helped bring about—though, ever modest, David never mentioned his role in it. His humanity and empathy left a lasting impression on all who accompanied him.

In later years, David and his wife Lucy made their home in Sherborne, where he was a stalwart of the community. He was deeply involved in Sherborne Abbey and served as Chair of the Friends of the Yeatman Hospital, supporting local healthcare initiatives with dedication and warmth. His funeral, held in Sherborne Abbey in July, was a magnificent occasion, with the Abbey filled to capacity by colleagues from the Brigade of Gurkhas, local residents, friends, and family.

David was above all a family man, immensely proud of his wife Lucy, their five children, and six grandchildren. He will be remembered with great affection for his integrity, kindness, modesty, and lifelong commitment to service—both to his country and to those around him.

We extend our deepest condolences to David’s family and friends.

Sources: Allhallows School archives; The Brigade of Gurkhas (https://www.gurkhabde.com/news/obituary-colonel-retired-david-hayes-cbe/); personal recollections kindly shared by Myf Adams (OH).