On New Year's Day, 1988, the Burley family moved into Maryfield, and once again the house was a family home. Before arriving in Taplow, Jerry Burley had been involved in the world of finance, where his uncanny understanding of numbers, coupled with endless common sense, ensured a very successful career in the world of taxation and corporate finance. We were fortunate that he was content to use these same talents to act as honorary auditor to our Society for many years.
As a boy, Jerry won a scholarship to East Ham Grammar School, and while there he played for Chelsea's youth side and nearly signed professional forms for them. Instead, however, he spent his National Service in Southern Rhodesia, returning to England to qualify as a Chartered Accountant. After a short spell in Jersey in the world of banking, he again returned to England where he joined Touche Ross and spent the rest of his working life with them.
In 1983, there began for Jerry two years of severe illness during which he underwent nine operations. During that time he was supported day and night by district nurses and in 1986 Jerry married his day nurse, Jane. Happily, he made a good recovery from his illness and was subsequently able to return to work until he retired in 1992.
Throughout his life Jerry never lost his love of sport, both as a player and spectator. He was a passionate bridge player, enjoying the game whatever the standard. He was also a most generous host, who shared his great love of fine wine and food with his many friends in Taplow.
Jerry will be sorely missed, but we must remember that life is not counted by the years you live but by the love you gave and the things you did.
Barrie Peroni
