RIP - Kelvin J A Bryon (OB Parent  & Benefactor)

Kelvin John Arthur Bryon (OB Parent  & Benefactor)

Born 28th August 1938 - Died 2nd September 2024

It is an honour to stand before you today to pay tribute to an extraordinary man — my father, a devoted husband, father of three, visionary entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for Welsh rugby.

While many knew him for his remarkable contributions to industry and sport, I’d like to take a moment to share the lesser-known story behind the man we loved so dearly.

Dad was born in Southall in 1938, and when the war began, my grandfather, knowing he would soon be called to serve, moved the family back to Newport, their hometown. Dad grew up surrounded by the warmth of family, living in rented rooms near his grandmother.

These early years were modest, and they later moved to a two-bedroom prefab in the Gaer before settling into a council house nearby. Life was not easy, but Dad was determined. He attended Newport High School and helped the family by working a paper route after his father bought him a bike.

Despite the financial challenges, and even after being told by some that he wouldn’t amount to much, Dad refused to let circumstances define him. He left school and took a job at a foundry, often coming home with holes burnt into in his shoes. Undeterred, he pursued his education by taking an HNC on day release and eventually earned a degree in Chemistry from Brunel Technical College.

His perseverance was a hallmark of his life, whether it was on an assembly line or in the classroom. In 1966, he married my mum after meeting her at a dance in Cardiff. Together, they embarked on a journey that would see Dad founding Basildon Chemicals in 1971. What began in a garage in Upper Basildon grew into an internationally recognized manufacturer of specialty silicone products, renowned for its quality and innovation. Dad’s path was not without its challenges — he faced significant opposition, even threats from larger competitors — but his vision and unwavering resolve saw him through. Under his leadership, Basildon Chemicals thrived, and its success stands as a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit.

Beyond business, Dad’s other great passion was rugby, especially the London Welsh Rugby Football Club. As managing director from 2007 to 2013, Dad played a pivotal role in guiding the club through both triumphs and tribulations. His dedication was unwavering, even at significant personal cost. His leadership was instrumental in helping London Welsh climb the ranks, achieving the dream of reaching the Premiership. Though the club would eventually face financial hardship, it was Dad’s tenacity and passion that allowed it to even dream of such heights. His love for the game, and his devotion to the Welsh community in London, never faltered — even through illness, he stayed connected with his beloved club.

Yet Dad’s generosity extended far beyond the rugby field. Whether it was sponsoring scholarships at Christ College or establishing a youth club for troubled teens in Upper Basildon, he quietly made a difference in countless lives.

Christ College are thankful for all he did, enabling a number of students to receive an education otherwise beyond them and their family.

His philanthropy was rooted in a deep sense of responsibility to give back to the communities that meant so much to him. In his retirement, Dad showed the same devotion to caring for Mum as he had to his business and rugby.

His quiet strength, endurance, and unshakable love for his family carried him through life’s challenges with grace. Dad’s legacy is one of perseverance, kindness, and unwavering commitment.

He made a difference in the lives of so many, and his influence will continue to be felt across the industry he shaped and the communities he loved. We will carry his memory with us always, cherishing the lessons he taught us, the love he gave us, and the indelible mark he left on our hearts.

Dad, you will live on in all of us, forever.

Thanks to Jonathan C Bryon (ORC, 83-88)