A long-serving “much respected” scout leader who dedicated his life to aiding young people in Harrow has died.
Ashley James Williams, who went by the nickname Ash, was born in Harrow and grew up in West Harrow opposite St Peter’s Church.
He died on August 8, aged 78.
Mr Williams joined the 8th Harrow – now the 8/19th Harrow – scouts group and joined as a cub, before later going on to senior scouts and rovers before becoming an assistant leader in 1961.
Eventually he took over as a scout leader and retained the role during his working life.
Even after retiring, he continued to dedicate his time helping young scouts through the role as group scout leader.
Ash pictured when he was younger
Although he lived a quiet life, he would commonly go to the White Horse pub on Middle Road and spent much of his life travelling to remote places in Western USA, New Zealand, Europe and parts of the UK.
Through scouting, he discovered a great interest in the outdoors and was active in mountaineering, boating - both sailing and canal boats - camping and other related outdoor pursuits including skiing.
Scouting was instrumental to his life, and brought him into contact with many memorable people, parents, colleagues and friends.
In the later stages of his life he became ill and was unable to enjoy the active lifestyle he grew up on, however he still participated in helping scouting groups as much as he could.
Ash loved the outdoors and spent much of his life travelling
A funeral service was held at Breakspear Crematorium on Wednesday (August 25).
A tribute and donation page to a charity, Sightsavers, was also set up in memory of Mr Williams, with many who knew him leaving messages of respect.
In some of the tributes left behind, people declared Mr Williams as an "inspiration" for so many young people after he dedicated much of his life to helping scouts.
In general, Mr Williams was very much respected by all those who knew him and had an unassuming nature that belied his dedication.
Around £600 has been donated by many who were impacted by Mr Williams over the years, according to the fundraising page.
To donate money to the chosen charity, or to leave a message of respect to the scout leader, visit: https://ashleywilliams.muchloved.com
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here