TRIBUTES have been paid to much-loved dad and passionate community volunteer Graham Foxley.

Graham, 66, spent a lot of time doing voluntary work in the Stroud area and always tried to live life with a positive outlook.

Sadly, he passed away recently just three months after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.

“Graham was excited about his upcoming retirement at the end of this year. This would have given him more time to complete the renovations on our home and tackle our hillside garden,” said his wife Di.

Two Just Giving pages have been set up to support good causes in his memory.

One online tribute said: “He passed this world in admiration for its beauty, from the smallest creature to a new stranger, that would surely become a friend.

“And to all that had the pleasure of sharing a part of his life.

“Even in hospital he still met and embraced new friends through his experience of cancer. He was forever the optimist, always looking for how tomorrow will be an easier day after living through today’s struggles.”

Graham spent over a decade as a cub leader with the Minchinhampton scout group, a role he loved.

Over the past 10 years he was also a fosterer with Stroud Cats Protection and would refer to the cats as ‘our welcome guests’.

Mr Foxley was also an active member of Nailsworth Silver Band for several years.

His three sons played in the band and Graham set up and managed its first website.

Tragedy hit the family as they lost their son Simon to suicide after social media bullying.

In response to this, Graham volunteered for Sunflowers Suicide Support as trustee, treasurer and by helping run the local support group in Stroud.

As Graham neared his retirement, he had plans to be even more active with his support for the charity.

A memorial service is at Miserden Village Hall on Sunday, November 7 at 12.30pm.

If you would like to attend, please email

difoxleydrums@gmail.com in advance. You are also kindly asked to do a lateral flow test beforehand and bring a mask.

Donations for Sunflowers Suicide Support will help set up a befriending service - see bit.ly/3lX7Coc

The family are also supporting the Sue Ryder Hospice in Cheltenham - see bit.ly/3jlKQVc

At the memorial service, donations of either spirits, liqueurs or soft drinks can be provided for patients at the hospice or to Sunflowers by cash or cheque.