Tim's good friend Joey Appleton (Du. 1979-84) writes:
In Memory of Tim Loadsman
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tim Loadsman (Le. 1951-57), a much-loved Old Brightonian whose lifelong dedication to the Old Brightonians Rugby Club and the wider OB community touched generations of members.
Tim passed away peacefully after living with Alzheimer's disease for several years at Fairdene Lodge Care Home, where he was cared for with great compassion. His beloved wife Monica had sadly passed away only a few months earlier, and it is a comfort to know they are together once again. Tim is survived by his children and family, to whom we extend our sincere condolences and heartfelt sympathy.
For many Old Brightonians, Tim was simply part of the fabric of the Club. Quiet, modest and unfailingly dependable, he never sought recognition for the countless hours he devoted to the Old Brightonians Association and Rugby Club. Yet those who knew him understood just how much the Club owed to his unwavering commitment and loyalty.
As Ian White (Ha./Ch. 1956-62) so eloquently reflected:
"Tim was the unsung type of hero that most of us have known for much of our lives. Modest, kind, thoughtful and always the man who could be relied upon. A rugby fanatic, yet always modest about his own ability, he devoted himself to supporting others. On the backs of such people communities grow. A towering personality grounded in absolute modesty, and a truly lovely man of whom his family should be immensely proud."
Rod Langridge (Al. 1953-61), who worked alongside Tim for many years, perhaps summed up his contribution best:
"Without Tim and Peter Rumney there would not have been any Old Brightonians Rugby for our generation to enjoy."
Tim's love of rugby never diminished. Whether running the touchline or, if the team was short, happily exchanging the touch judge's flag for an OB jersey, he would answer the call without hesitation. Even well into his fifties he was still pulling on the famous black and red shirt simply because he loved the game and loved the Club.
Benjamin Stott (Ry. 1979-84) fondly recalled one final chance meeting with Tim in the care home. Although dementia had stolen many memories, showing him photographs of former teammates rekindled moments of recognition and laughter. Mentioning the legendary Peter Rumney (Ha. 1937-39) instantly transported Tim back to the touchline as he enthusiastically began chanting "Rumney" - much to the bemusement of the other residents. It was a touching reminder that, despite everything, the Old Brightonians Rugby Club remained deeply embedded in his heart.
John Aiken (1976-81) remarked that “Tim was an absolute Stalwart of everything ‘Old Brightonian’ - his long service as Secretary to the OBA as well as his years as Secretary to the OBRUFC showed this. John says he will never forget the match where he had his front tooth knocked out and he got up smiling and asked, "Could you sort this out John?" - He stayed on the pitch to the final whistle!
Many former teammates remember packing down alongside Tim over the years. As Mark Green (Al. 1973-78) observed, he may not have been "the greatest second row," but Tim represented everything that amateur rugby should be -playing purely for the love of the game, always dependable, always willing, and always proud to wear the Old Brightonians shirt.
Across the Old Brightonians community, the reaction to Tim's passing has been remarkably consistent. Words such as gentle, kind, courageous, humble, dependable and unassuming appear time and again. They paint a picture of a man who never looked for applause, yet earned the admiration and affection of everyone fortunate enough to know him.
There will be no formal funeral, in accordance with Tim's wishes. However, we know that whenever Old Brightonians gather in the future - whether on the touchline, around a golf table, or over a quiet pint - stories of "Loado" will be shared with smiles, laughter and enormous gratitude. As one member remarked, the next time Old Brightonians meet together, there will undoubtedly be a toast raised in Tim's honour.
The Old Brightonians Association has lost one of its true gentlemen. His contribution cannot be measured simply by matches played or years served, but by the spirit of friendship, loyalty and selfless service that he embodied throughout his life.
Thank you, Tim, for everything you gave to the Old Brightonians. You were one of the finest custodians our Club has ever known, and your legacy will live on for many years to come.
Donations in Tim's memory
At Tim's family's request, there will be no funeral service. Anyone wishing to remember Tim is invited to make a donation to Martlets Hospice, whose care and support means so much to families across Sussex.
https://www.martlets.org.uk/donate/
"Once an Old Brightonian, always an Old Brightonian."