Alfred was born in Bedford in the second year of World War I.
He was converted in his teens and for a while worked in London where his gifts and potential were recognised by the pastor of the Baptist church in Clerkenwell, who encouraged him to begin preaching and to lead in a variety of other ministries.
Preaching ministry
In 1940 he married Ivy from Warboys and they set up home in Highbury, a traumatic time for Londoners, with German bombs never far away from their doors. Following the sudden death of his father he returned to Bedford to manage the family business, where they became members at Providence Chapel and he pursued a course of theological study with the Strict Baptist Institute. Soon his Sundays were taken up with a growing itinerant ministry, until he was called to concentrate his efforts as pastor of churches in Clifton and Potton for periods of seven years respectively.
In 1965 he was invited to the rapidly expanding town of Aylesbury, where he led the recently-formed church as they progressed the work in the Bedgrove area of the town. Alfred was known for both his clear and thoughtful preaching and his enthusiasm for the Lord’s work more widely, serving on GBM council and as a regular at the Westminster Fellowship chaired by Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones.
Those who grew up and matured under his care speak most highly of his dedication and also his discreet sense of humour and genuine friendship. His time at Limes Avenue witnessed many conversions and baptisms, Whilst meticulous in his sermon preparation he was very much a people’s person too with a pastoral heart for young and old alike. He was affectionately known as Sibbles to the younger element, though never to his face!
Supportive member
In later years he moved to lead a church in Waldringfield, Suffolk and then spent the last stage of his life’s journey as a most supportive member and friend to all at Cauldwell Hall Road, Ipswich. During the time I knew him, despite his naturally conservative nature, he was never stuffy or resistant to constructive change. His funeral was a joyful time of thanksgiving attended by his children and grandchildren as well as many appreciative friends from near and far.
