The Vesey Community were shocked and saddened by the news of the sudden death of former student, Jack Ryan (0V 2002-2009) on January 13th.  Jack, was tragically knocked down and killed, at the age of 29 whilst jogging near Battersea Bridge in West London.   An avid supporter of Aston Villa, Jack joined Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School in 2002 from St Joseph’s Primary School.   Jack was a member of White House and enjoyed a distinguished career at BVGS.  He was a member of a very successful Rugby Team, which he captained in Year’s 9 and 10.  Jack studied Geography, Psychology and History at A-Level before going on to study International History & International Politics at the University of Sheffield. Jack, was in the midst of a very successful career in Digital Marketing, in his position as ‘Senior Marketing Manager’ at PWC. 

Jack, was an incredibly popular member of the school community during his time at BVGS. He formed many close friendships that had endured into adult life.   He lived with two friends Alastair Day and Owain Jones, from Vesey’s, whilst at University, both of whom he was ‘Best Man’ for.  Mr Goodwin fondly remembers Jack as “an exuberant and witty individual who was very popular amongst his peer group. He could always deliver a quick response to any question, usually to the amusement of all those present. As well as his good humour, Jack was always impeccably mannered and incredibly earnest in everything he undertook.   He was wonderful young man and attended a recent 10 Year reunion at the OV Dinner in 2019.  I was delighted and unsurprised to hear that Jack was enjoying such a successful career”.  Mr Greenwood, who was a school contemporary of Jack, commented that “Jack was so popular, universally so. He was the life and soul of the common room, happy go lucky and always upbeat. I was proud to have him as a teammate, a captain and more importantly a friend. Jack was entertaining and talented in equal measure; the best sportsman in both our football and rugby teams at Sutton Rugby club without doubt. I know everyone would agree that wherever he was would become more enjoyable just from his presence.”

Jack’s passing has had a profound impact of many former Vesey students and the phrase

“everyone’s best friend” has figured in numerous recent eulogies.  Jack was an outstanding young man who embodied the ‘Vesey Experience” and will be missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know him.

Rest In Peace, Jack.

Dave Goodwin, Head of Sixth Form