Woodley town council has announced the recent death of former councillor Coling Lawley.
In a statement, a spokesperson said: “Cllr Lawley was a dedicated councillor and a much-valued member of the Woodley community.
“He served as deputy town mayor from 2008 to 2010, and went on to serve as town mayor from 2010 to 2012.
Cllr Keith Baker, Woodley town council leader, said: “I was sad to hear about the passing of Coling, someone who I had many discussions and debates on a variety of matters.
“Whilst we were in different political parties, those discussions were always done with integrity and good humour with no hint of any animosity between us.
“We also shared participation in many committees over the years, especially the town centre management initiative, and anyone attending them would be left in no doubt of his passion for Woodley.
“To me he was very much ‘old school’ as far as behaviour was concerned compared to what is happening now and was always polite even if he vehemently disagreed with you.
“Everything he did was focussed on Woodley. He was a credit to his party.”
Coling was a well-known resident of Woodley. For many years he was the manager and pharmacist at Boots in Woodley town centre, where his help was much appreciated by residents.
Cllr Beth Rowland added: “He joined the Liberal Democrats and was encouraged to stand as a councillor on both Woodley town council and Wokingham borough council, following which, for a short time, he became leader of Wokingham borough council before retiring from both his working and public life.”
Most recently, Cllr Lawley joined the council to celebrate the opening of its new History Wall and Coronation orchard garden.
He had previously gifted historical maps of Woodley, which are on display at the Oakwood Centre.
“Coling was a kind and committed councillor who gave so much to Woodley during his time on the council and beyond.
“His contributions, both as a councillor, mayor and as a community member, will not be forgotten,” said Kevin Murray, Woodley town council’s clerk.
Out of respect for Coling, Woodley town council will be flying the town council flag at half-mast.
It also extends its heartfelt condolences to Coling’s family and friends at this difficult time.
