Tony Williams, managing director of Marlows DIY & Garden Centre in Suffolk, passed away on October 1. Here, he is remembered by his daughter Sarah.
"On Friday October 1, Tony died very peacefully at home with his family, after suffering from a short but aggressive illness that he bore with fortitude.

Those who knew Tony well will have known that he fought the illness demonstrating his truly strong and determined character.

Tony started his working career at the local newspaper and later moved to Marlows Hollow Road where he managed the small shop selling off-cuts from the then builders trade counter. Over close to 40 years Tony survived two recessions to grow and develop the business to more than ten times its original size employing 50 plus local people.

His business career extended as an active member of the Garden Centre Association, and as a passionate believer in independent businesses that he whole-heartedly supported personally and in business, with contacts spreading the breadth of the country.

Alongside Tony worked his wife Liz and daughter Sarah who were involved in many of his business ventures over the years with support from his second daughter Hannah.

Tony will also be remembered by many local to Bury St Edmunds from his days at the Bury St Edmunds Rugby Club where he played for the town. He was also Vice Chairman of Bury in Bloom as well as a member of the Bury St Edmunds Society.

He supported many personal charities during his life and one close to his heart was guide dogs for the blind.

Tony's request was for a family funeral which was on Thursday, October 7, and he was buried at Culford Woodland.

Any cards of sympathy or donations may be passed on via Armstrongs, St Andrew Street North, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk."