The funeral of David Lowe, former manager of the Ipswich Gaumont (now The Regent), a devoted family man and a great friend to the many people who used and frequented the theatre, took place today at St Mary le Tower Church.

East Anglian Daily Times: Funeral of David Lowe, leaves the theatre where he was once manager followed by family and friends.Funeral of David Lowe, leaves the theatre where he was once manager followed by family and friends.

A procession of family and friends began at The Regent, where David Lowe spent much of his working life, and ended at the church, before the funeral service.

The standard of the Royal Anglian Regiment was carried in front of the hearse while mourners followed on foot. David Lowe served in India with distinction in the Second World War and his medals and cap were atop his Union Flag-draped coffin.

One of the voices of Ipswich Town, having been the PA announcer on match days, at Portman Road, David knew many of the players. He was also a Rotarian and known to generations of cinema goers at both The Gaumont and the Odeon, in Lloyds Avenue.

The service, officiated by Rev Canon Charles Jenkins, spoke of David Lowe’s enthusiasm for all he did, his astonishing marketing skills, the support he gave the community, and the stars (including The Beatles) he looked after when they performed at the Gaumont. But his great love was for his family and each of his nine children penned fond, personal memories of their father. They spoke of piling into his capacious Jaguar car with their mum, Barbara, for days out; of holidays and picnics at Mundesley, in north Norfolk; of playing football; of their dad singing Al Jolson songs or reciting poetry; of his interest in all they did; of the fun they had.

East Anglian Daily Times: David Lowe with a table mat showing himself with the Beatles.David Lowe with a table mat showing himself with the Beatles. (Image: Archant)

During the service, which was attended by a large congregation, his son, Richard, read Wordsworth’s Upon Westminster Bridge and his niece, Carol Evans read Shakespeare’s sonnet Shall I Compare Thee to a Summer’s Day, two of David’s favourite pieces.

The order of service was accompanied by pictures of David Lowe with The Beatles, with his late wife and family, in 2nd Battalion Norfolk Regiment uniform (he was born and raised in North Walsham) and with C-3PO from Star Wars.

The closing procession from the church was accompanied by the Edwin Hawkins Singers, O Happy Day, marking a happy life.

The service was followed by a private family Commital at Seven Hills Crematorium.

David Lowe September 16 1924 - September 18 2015.