Gary Francis, Seymour Taylor’s first managing partner, sadly died on 12 June 2011. His funeral took place on Wednesday 29 June.

Gary joined the practice as a school leaver in February 1969 as an articled clerk, working for Ernest Seymour, the son of the firm’s founder. He subsequently took the ICAEW exams and qualified as a chartered accountant in 1974.

After bringing on board a major client, with whom the firm still works closely today, in April 1977 Gary became the youngest person to be made a partner at Seymour Taylor at the age of just 25. The achievement was something he continued to consider his “biggest buzz”.

With a strong track record of building his own client base and “carrying the can” of responsibility, he became Seymour Taylor’s first managing partner in 1990. He went on to build a new structure for the practice, developing its range of services, providing staff training and developing marketing.

When Seymour Taylor was integrated into the Hampden Group in July 2009, Gary became one of six directors, finally retiring - after 41 years with the firm - in April 2010.

Simon Turner, managing director of Seymour Taylor, said: “Gary achieved an incredible amount over the years and was a strong mentor to colleagues and staff.”

“Gary will be very sadly missed by all fellow directors, colleagues and staff of Seymour Taylor, past and present. Our thoughts and loving wishes are naturally with his family.”

Gary was a much loved Dad, son and brother. His family have requested that in lieu of floral tributes, that donations be made to Diabetes UK (charity number 215199). They have chosen this charity as Gary suffered from diabetes and the money will fund research and support their work helping people live with the condition. Please see below should you wish to make a contribution.

We are very sorry to have to bring you this news. If you wish to pass on any fond memories you have of Gary to his daughter Nicola Francis, please do so c/o this firm. Hearing thoughts of this kind will be a great comfort to her and the family at this challenging time.

Donations if desired will go to:

Diabetes UK
c/o Beacon Funeral Services
27 Rose Avenue
Hazlemere
High Wycombe
Bucks
HP15 7PH
01494 818181