Nuggets of Rock history

Men who left their mark on Rock

By J Collett

When I was first asked by our illustrious editor a year ago to write a series of articles on the history of the Parish of Rock, I compiled a list of possible subjects I might be able to expand upon. One of the subjects that had always interested me was that of men or women who had made a difference to the area, or left a mark of their having been here. Hence so far the articles on the Mayor of Callow Hill (R&DN July 2011), and the history of Richard Hubball (R&DN Nov 2011), were just 2 on the list I made at the time, there are still 4 or 5 names I have yet to cover on the subject, interposed with more general articles. But sadly one of the stories I planned to relate later in the year has been brought very much to the fore with the passing of Bill Doolittle who died on the 15th of April this year. What I intended to cover was the story of how Bill and his wife Geraldine, ably assisted by Paul Jackson, built up a business that once again put the sleepy little village of Far Forest on the national and even world map, that concept of how from small acorns the mighty Oak doth grow has always intrigued me. But now I feel that before covering that part of the story, we should first say a fond farewell to a son of the parish who was part of the very structure that makes this place so unique and true to the theme, Bill has become a part of the history of Rock Parish.

I could eulogize all day long on the life of one William Harold Doolittle but nothing would sum up the life of the man better that the epilogue to Bill’s life that was spoken by his son in law at the funeral on Friday the 27th of April, so on behalf of Paul Walker and all who will miss a true ‘Nugget of Rock’ here is Paul’s goodbye.

Bill Doolittle A fond fair well by Paul Walker

I really didn't want to stand here today, but the person I'm about to tell you about would be the first to encourage me, push me forward and kick my backside if I let him down, so here goes!

We're here to acknowledge and celebrate the life of William Harold Doolittle, "Bill" to those who knew him. A husband to Gerry of some 58 years, a Father to his three daughters, Gill, Caroline and Catherine, a Grandfather to Andrew, Ruth, Kate and Tom, and a Great Grandfather to young Peter who gave him 20 months of pleasure. A character, a "man's man", a strong-willed hard -working individual who gained respect, hence the turnout here today, as true respect is earned in life, not commanded.

Born in 1930 at home with twin sister Betty to complete the family of now three children, with Nelly, first born. Both sisters are here today, Nelly Gatehouse and Betty Fletcher.

Bill went to school on the Forest then moved on to King Charles School in Kidderminster, leaving at 16 to work on the family farm. He then took over the family business of hardwood rustic making, which he developed to such a degree, with his wife and long-term friend and colleague Paul Jackson, that their skills gained national recognition, exporting to America and overseas.

I remember having quite a shock when opening the Gardeners World magazine to see Bill photographed over a two page spread, demonstrating his rustic making, wearing an MEB jacket I'd supplied him with! But that was Bill, they had to take him as they found him, no frills, nothing staged. National recognition, some achievement from a small family-run business from the little village of Far Forest in Worcestershire.

Talking about achievements, one thing he was very proud of is that in 1977, working full-time, he built the family home. An incredible feat as he taught himself to brick-lay and a number of jobs he completed without having any knowledge of beforehand, often finishing off by torch-light and this after a full days making rustic furniture. He was immensely proud of his bungalow and often referred to it.

Bill was also very proud of his three daughters who all individually went on to develop their own successful careers in retail. He was always interested in how they were getting on, ready to share in success when warranted. His opinions were sought and acknowledged as they were valued, they meant something. He didn't mince his words and gave it to you straight, whether you liked it or not!

Bill had a love of horses, and after working until he was seventy years old, he finally started to slow down. He would enjoy a day out at Ludlow races, with Gerry, where they were members. But his great passion was gardening. A seasoned, experienced gardener, who took pride in producing vegetables for the table and family. But for three young girls growing up this could often be a real challenge as what was grown had to be used, not wasted, and at a young age there are only so many sprouts, carrots, beans, cabbage and onions you can eat. And

then there was Surprise Pudding, because if it wasn't rhubarb from his vast plantation, then it was a real surprise!

As in life, there were no short cuts tending the garden. It was done properly or not at all. Only last year, how could he be old? How could he be ill? How could he barrow eight tons of muck around the garden and dig it all in!! You wouldn't want to work alongside this eighty year old, or you would definitely feel your age!

The garden complemented one of the highlights of the year for him, the Far Forest Show, of which he was a proud President. This local man championed the area and for him the show brought everyone together.

His strength of character and single-mindedness stayed with him 'til the end. He refused to lose dignity, he refused to lose control. He refused to give in, with the totally devoted support of his wife "Gerr"; he fought at home 'til the end. His wife is now the last holder of the Doolittle name in the area.

Bill Doolittle born in Far Forest, lived in Far Forest, worked in Far Forest. God bless now and rest here.