In loving memory of our beautiful Jonathan, who left us much too soon after an 18m battle with Leukemia. Jonathan was only 45, but left a legacy as big as his personality. Jonathan was a loving husband, a devoted dad, a much loved brother in law and uncle, an amazing son & brother, as well as brilliant friend to so so many of you.  

Jonathan left his mark wherever he went, making everybody laugh & smile along the way… he truly had funny bones. Jonathan was a selfless man, always putting everyone else first. He loved his family, his friends, his colleagues, and pretty much all sports …and was as happy watching a non league football match as he was watching his beloved Leeds. 

As a man, Jonathan had a remarkable career in education, becoming one of the youngest Primary school Head’s in the country, before going on to establish the Rainbow Multi Academy Trust where he was the CEO & Executive Headmaster of 9 schools. 

Jonathan has always been a charasmatic, committed and innovative leader in everything he has done, never being afraid to take on a challenge or try something new. From the early days when he was the 17 year old coach of Bramhope U16 CC, to being the 21 year old captain of Bramhope FC where he led them to their record breaking 2000/01 season winning all 4 available trophies.

At this time Jonathan also took on his first teaching role at Holy Trinity Primary school where (having read about the links between fitness & concentration) he introduced and led the entire school (including teachers) in “Monday morning Aerobics,” which he did from the school roof! Whilst there he also led his young team of “first time” rugby players to win the National Tag Rugby Championship Final at Twickenham, as well as persuading Leeds United and Leeds Rhinos to send players to lead coaching sessions in PE.

This pioneering approach continued in his roles as Headmaster and then CEO, though he was never happier than coaching youth football, which he did in recent years for both Oliver & Tabitha’s teams.

As most of you will remember, Jonathan could talk for England and was never short of words, so please take this opportunity to leave a few words about him. For many of us, life without Jonathan will be a bit less bright and have a bit less colour in it, but your words, messages, pictures, and memories will be a huge comfort to all of us, and give us all something to look back on with a smile, when we remember this truly truly brilliant lad. xx