Tributes paid to Moses Penfold who passed away aged 85

One of the last remaining Romany Gypsies from Christchurch, Moses Fredrick Penfold, died on June 11, 2024, at 11am, of heart failure.

In a strange coincidence, Moses died on the same date and time as his brother, who passed away exactly 60 years before.

Moses' family said he was a 'devoted husband' to his wife, Eileen. Together, they had four children - Tammy, Joe, Kelly, and Dean. They later went on to have 18 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Moses's niece, Rachael Saunders, said: "I have never known a man love his family so much. He was always thinking about others.

"He made sure he told everyone how much he loved everyone. He is going to make a void in everyone's lives."

For most of his life, Moses worked in tarmacking and as a landscape gardener. In 1956, he was called up for national service and was a chauffeur to the commanding officer for three years.

A 'huge' funeral is being held for Moses on Tuesday June 25, where hundreds of people are expected to attend and are invited to pay their respects.

Rachael said that her uncle was known as 'an amazing singer' and loved to sing wherever he went.

She said: "His favourite song was Mona Lisa; that's what he loved to sing whenever there was a party or a wedding; he would be the first one singing."

For the funeral, Rachael's mum has had a six-foot cushion made in flowers with a musical note and Mona Lisa written on it as a tribute to Moses's love for the Nat King Cole song.

Moses's grandmother was Betsy Smith, who was the first flower seller in Bournemouth Square, a job which she did with her sisters her whole life.

In Roman Gypsy tradition, Moses is being brought back to his home so his family can say their goodbyes at Rutland Road before the funeral.

He will then be transported to St George Church in Christchurch in a horse and carriage.

There will be four flower lorries and a police escort to the service.

Moses' family has said everyone is welcome to come and pay their respects.