Gilbert Spofforth REAKES (1888-1975)

Gilbert Spofforth Reakes (1888-1975) was locum at St James’ Church, Badsey, in May and June 1914 during the absence of Reverend Allsebrook.  He is mentioned in two letters written by May Sladden as he used to join her and her friends for tennis.

Gilbert Reakes was born on 18th August 1888 at Wells, Somerset, the third of five children of Henry William Reakes, a hardware dealer, and his wife, Lillian Maria Coome (née Tucker).  The family lived at 1 Market Place, Wells.  He was educated Wells Cathedral Grammar School and The University of Liverpool, from which he graduated in 1910 with a BA Honours degree in Classics.  At the time of the 1911 census, Gilbert was a theological student in Mirfield, Dewsbury, Yorkshire.  His first parish was St Paul’s, Deptford, south-east London, and it was from here that he was sent as a locum for a short period in 1914.  In addition to conducting the normal services, he also officiated at four baptisms between 31st May and 14th June 1914.

In 1924, Gilbert Reakes married Kathleen A Carty.  From 1924-1937, Reverend Reakes was Vicar of St Peter Walworth, London.  A photo of him at this time appears on the Walworth St Peter website.  At the time of the 1939 register, Gilbert and Kathleen were living in Battersea, London, where he was Vicar.

Reverend Gilbert Reakes died on 25th August 1975 at Headbourne Worthy, near Winchester.