Family's farewell to popular grandad

Julian Smith with sons Thomas and Benjamin

A WELL-KNOWN and much-loved grandfather has died after losing his fight against cancer.

Oldham-born Julian Smith (70) worked as a solicitor for more than 40 years and was a keen amateur dramatist.

The former solicitor who lived in The Warren, Ainley Wood, Delph, with wife Jill (65), was the only Notary Public in Oldham, after receiving the royal appointment at Westminster Abbey from the Archbishop of Canterbury in 1980.

In this capacity, he handled international documents for a multitude of clients, including British Vita and Innovative Technology.

Mr Smith was diagnosed with cancer of the oesophagus in January and given three months to live but 'was able to fight' on until Sunday, July 10.

Mrs Smith, a teaching assistant, said: "We accepted it straight away and we had a sign on the front door saying no miserable people.

"The service today is going to be a celebration of his life rather than a funeral and we are dressing up in bright colours.

"Everyone knew us for laughing and joking which is why I am not miserable now ­- you just remember the good times you had."

The couple were married 42 years ago and were the last to be wed at Uppermill register office.

Working in commerical law and property for most of his career, Mr Smith took up posts at Oldham's North Ainley and Wrigley Claydon solicitors. In addition to his work commitments, Mr Smith carried out roles in am-dram theatres across Oldham for 30 years and in his earlier years became a national sailing champion. He started out in Delph with the Saddleworth Players at Millgate Art Centre and later played parts in Shaw, Chadderton and Guide Bridge.

His eldest son Thomas Smith (36) said: "He was the life and soul of the party and never let the illness affect him, even to the end.

"When we got the diagnosis, the doctors thought it would be about three months but he was able to fight and so we got an extra three months."

More than 100 people attended a farewell party in May.

A family service was taking place at the Valley View, Uppermill, at 11am with friends gathering at the Playhouse 2 Theatre in Shaw afterwards.

Mr Smith leaves behind his wife Jill, sons Thomas and Benjamin, daughter Jocelyn and four grandchildren.