Taylorian 2020

15 Peter Pumilia Peter joined Merchant Taylors’ 23 years ago and proved to be the epitome of loyalty and hard work. Although it is not a title he would claim for himself, Peter was a true leader. He led by action rather than words, always pushing on to the next task and going above and beyond when nobody else was watching. Peter’s loyalty to the School was beyond question. If a job needed doing, then he made sure it was done properly, inspiring and motivating his colleagues along the way. Peter had three passions in life. First and foremost was his family, whom he loved dearly. This was followed by Watford Football Club andMerchant Taylors’ School. In Peter’s last appraisal, when asked to identify his goals for the coming year, he responded by saying “To try to do the best that I can. To set the same high standards, and be loyal and trustworthy to the School”. Peter achieved these goals every year until the end of his life, which came much too soon. He will be remembered for his loyalty, leadership, and incredible work ethic, which set an example to us all. Michael Richards Michael joined our Porters’ team in September 2002 at the age of 22 and he remained with the School until his sudden and unexpected passing in March 2020. Michael was a much loved member of the team, who developed a strong bond with his colleagues and felt like part of the Head Porter’s own family. Standing at well over six feet tall, he was affectionately known as ‘Big Michael’ due to his strength and ability to lift and move loads that the rest of us would not attempt. Michael was a doting and committed father to his two young children, and he shared a close bond with his mother and family, whom he loved dearly. Other passions in Michael’s life included fishing, mopeds, Arsenal Football Club, and music. He could often be seen singing along to his favourite tunes as he completed his work around the School during the holidays or set up the Great Hall for key events. The coronavirus lockdown prevented what would have been a record-breaking attendance at the Crematorium, as the service was limited to close family only. As soon as restrictions allow, however, we look forward to welcoming Michael’s family to a Memorial Service and Reception at the School so that we can pay tribute to this kind and loyal man who left us far too soon. Mr I Williams Valete Valete In Memoriam This year we remember Peter Pumilia and Michael Richards, two loyal members of the Merchant Taylors’ Porters’ Team, who dedicated a combined total of 41 years of outstanding service to the School. There cannot be a single person at Merchant Taylors’ who has not been helped by Peter and Michael at some point, as their energy and dynamism prepared all areas of the School for each event. Newly inscribed benches are now in place in our Memorial Garden to provide an appropriate place of reflection as we remember them both.