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The obituary notice of Neville JOHNSON

Coventry | Published in: Coventry Telegraph.

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NevilleJOHNSON(78)

Passed away peacefully in Coventry on 12 February 2026. He will be greatly missed by his wife Justine, children Gerald and Fiona, and grandchildren Gavin and Keira.

An inspirational teacher, he will be remembered by many staff and ex-pupils in Coventry and beyond. He taught maths at Bablake, Bishop Ullathorne and Alderman Callow schools, taking on the roles of Head of Department and then Deputy Head as his career progressed. During the 1990s he became the city's maths advisor, in the days when local authorities were responsible for raising school standards. He was instrumental in setting up the successful National Numeracy Project in Coventry, subsequently taking on a government role as a Regional Director for the Numeracy Strategy launched in schools nationally in 1999. Always passionate about his subject, he aimed to reduce the number of people who declared they hated maths in school.

When not working he always liked to be active: running in his younger days (he completed the historic Marathon to Athens race in 1989) and long country trails later on. In retirement swimming five mornings a week was added. And few people knew he was an excellent folk dancer - his back flips in the Northumbrian Rapper Sword Dance were impressive.

A true Geordie in spirit, plainspoken and never wanting a fuss, he was adamant that he did not want a funeral. Most of his ashes will be scattered in his beloved North-east.

If desired, donations in his memory may be made to dragonflycancertrust.org (support for young people with terminal cancer, originally a local Newcastle charity, now national) or guysgift.co.uk (support for bereaved children in Coventry and Warwicks.)
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Published: 04/03/2026
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I admired Neville more and more as the years went by as I understood better how his life had been characterised by the importance that he placed on service, and notably for the humility with which endeavoured to better the lives of those whom he supported. He seemed to know what mattered, and to just do it rather than shout about it. A man of good humour and clear mind who served honourably as a proud ambassador for the North East and her traditions (including a love of its buses…), and who embodied the resilience of that part of the world. Neville’s doggedness, discipline and enthusiasm for the basic good things in life will remain with us as a reminder of sometimes just how to be. Chris, Carrie, Jamie & Abby x
Chris
04/03/2026
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Neville was a good friend and neighbour and will be sadly missed by us. Can't believe we'll never see him striding back from a walk to Coombe Country Park again. Thinking of Justine and all the family. Mark & Jan
Donation left by Janice Butler
04/03/2026
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Neville was a good friend and neighbour and will be sadly missed by us. Can't believe we'll never see him striding back from a walk to Coombe Country Park again. Thinking of Justine and all the family. Mark & Jan
Donation left by Janice Butler
04/03/2026
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Thinking of others as always.
Donation left by Michael SMITH
04/03/2026
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A true gentleman and a great colleague to work with. Very sadly missed.
Mike Smith
04/03/2026
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So sad to learn of Neville's death. In my first teaching post at Bishop Ullathorne School Neville was a highly esteemed colleague, a brilliant teacher with a passion for his beloved Mathematics which he communicated so well to his students. Before the post of Head of Sixth Firm was created, Neville shared the running of the seniors with another legend, the late Mrs. Van Hee. What a team they made. Neville was also a talented timetabled who had the gift of keeping everyone happy, no easy task! Loved by his students, admired and respected by his colleagues, what more could a teacher want? I send my sympathy to Neville's family. Tony Kiely, Bishop Ullathorne School, 1975 -1985.
Tony Kiely
04/03/2026
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Tony Kiely
04/03/2026
A Tribute to Neville Johnson: Our Favorite Wave-Maker
The pool at Caludon Castle feels a little too still now as we remember Neville Johnson, a man who graced our lanes 5 days a week for over 15 years. Neville didn’t just swim a mile; he made sure everyone knew he was doing it! While his "enthusiastic" splashing was legendary (and perhaps gave other swimmers a few extra showers), his consistency was unmatched. Truth be told, he’s the reason we kept early morning sessions going—we knew if we didn't open the doors, Neville would be there waiting, goggles on and ready to go! We’ll miss his grit, his routine, and the daily tidal wave he brought with him.
Rest in peace, Neville; we hope the lanes are wide and the water is perfect wherever you are.
Ryan Calvert - Caludon Castle Sport centre
04/03/2026
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Ryan Calvert - Caludon Castle Sport centre
04/03/2026
I had the privilege of knowing Neville for 26 years, initially as a colleague in the National Numeracy Strategy, but then as a dear friend. He was always focused in work on making a difference, and not only getting things done, but getting them done well. His drive was remarkable. He was always down to earth, straight talking, but always sensitive. Always energetic, enthusiastic and positive. Neville was always great company. I carry many fond memories from work, from evenings out and from watching Newcastle United together. His death came as something of a shock, and I know I will miss him.
Colin Penfold
04/03/2026
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