Remembering The Reverend George Bush

The Furniture Makers’ Company is deeply saddened by the death of the Reverend George Bush, honorary freeman and chaplain to the Master from 2003 to 2024. A priest of warmth, wisdom and wit, George brought spiritual guidance, friendship and a wonderful sense of fun to the life of the Company.

George served his curacy in an area of Leeds marked by considerable poverty, but also by a rich tradition of Yorkshire humour. Both experiences helped shape his ministry, strengthening his pastoral commitment and nurturing the humour and storytelling for which he became so well known.

From Leeds, he returned to his former Cambridge college as chaplain. There, to his amusement, he discovered that a painting at which he had once thrown a sprout as a student was now hanging in his rooms. On his departure, a distinguished history professor described him as “the best Chaplain in the history of the College”.

George subsequently took up a Crown incumbency in Hoxton, then an area of significant deprivation. He earned respect through his faithful observance of traditional Anglo-Catholic practice, ringing the Angelus bell by hand each day. Alongside this devotion came an infectious enjoyment of life: his parties in the church hall and vicarage became legendary.

In 2002, George received a letter from the Archbishop of Canterbury, George Carey, announcing his appointment to the prestigious living of St Mary-le-Bow in the City of London. It was a role well suited to his gifts. Passionate in his belief that the Church should be vividly present in the secular world, he devoted his considerable energy and charm to expanding the church’s connections with the City and its livery companies.

For The Furniture Makers’ Company, George was far more than a familiar presence at formal occasions. Through his pastoral care, thoughtful sermons and memorable graces, he offered encouragement and companionship to successive Masters and the wider membership.

Past Master Nicholas Radford recalled the profound influence George had on his life: “He was in many ways responsible for the reawakening of my Christian faith. In fact, I would go so far as to say he changed my life.”

Nicholas also remembered George’s enthusiastic company after his Installation Dinner, when a nightcap developed into an evening at Annabel’s that continued into the early hours. It became one of George’s favourite stories, growing more elaborate with each retelling. Beneath the humour lay a deep affection. “I will miss George greatly, his leadership, his spiritual wisdom and above all his wonderful sense of fun,” Nicholas said.

Past Master Dids Macdonald OBE remembered his rare ability to unite scholarly faith with delight in life. Before her year as Master, George invited her to St Mary-le-Bow for a tour, sherry and conversation on his vine-clad terrace, a peaceful retreat above the bustle of the City he loved.

“George brought warmth, wisdom, wit and humanity wherever he went,” she said. “It was a privilege to spend that time with him, and a memory I shall treasure.”

Tamsen Tadros, wife of Past Master Edward Tadros, recalled conversations ranging across art, music, theology, philosophy and travel. “Our conversation was often the highlight of my evening,” she said. “He was the best dinner companion and we had such fun.”

Jonny Westbrooke, Clerk of The Furniture Makers’ Company, recalled how a memorable early encounter with George led to a lasting friendship.

“At one of my first dinners involving the Loving Cup, I nervously stood up too early. From across the room came George’s voice: ‘Would the Clerk sit down.’ We discussed it afterwards over the Stirrup Cup and became firm friends. I think I’ve got it right since!”

George will be remembered with great affection and gratitude by all those whose lives he touched through his ministry and friendship.

His funeral, a High Mass of Requiem, will take place on Friday 23 October 2026 at 2.00pm at Little Saint Mary’s Church, Cambridge, CB2 1QG, followed by a drinks reception at St John’s College, CB2 1TP. Those wishing to attend are asked to register via the Google Form. The service will also be livestreamed through Little St Mary’s YouTube channel.

A service celebrating George’s life and ministry as Rector will be held at St Mary-le-Bow on Friday 23 April 2027 at 1.00pm.