Jan Wright 1946 – 2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Jan Wright, who served as clerk to the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers from 1995 until her retirement in 2009. 

Jan was born in Clapham and educated at Sydenham High School, before completing her A Levels at Westminster College. Her early career included a role at a publishing house in Kilburn, followed by a formative year abroad (1966–67) working at the American Airforce base in Hanau, Germany. On her return to the UK, she became secretary to the export director at Beefeater Gin in Kennington, a post she held until 1971 when she helped to establish a small wine and spirit business.

Jan married Peter in 1973 and embraced motherhood with the birth of their children Sara in 1980 and Philip in 1982. She spent several years as a full-time mother before returning to the world of work as a secretary to a psychiatrist at the Maudsley Hospital in South London.

Her association with the Worshipful Company of Furniture Makers began when she joined as secretary to the clerk, Gordon Acklam. Upon his retirement, she was appointed clerk herself – a role in which she served with remarkable commitment and grace for over a decade.

Among Jan’s many contributions, perhaps the most enduring was her instrumental role in the acquisition of Furniture Makers’ Hall in 2005, made possible through her connection with the clerk of the Carmen. The hall’s opening by Lord Mayor Sir David Brewer marked a new chapter in the Company’s history, and Jan was at the heart of it – ensuring the occasion, which welcomed 54 visiting Masters, unfolded seamlessly.

Colleagues remember her with great affection and admiration.

Past Master David Burbidge remarked, “She will be sadly missed by all of us throughout the livery who worked with her. She deserves our recognition for all that she did for us.”

Past Master Edward Tadros recalled, “Jan was great company; she had an ebullient personality and was always great fun to be with anywhere. And Peter would always be there supporting her and keeping an eye on the Master of the moment.”

Past Master Cliff Rust added, “When I was Master she was a huge support to me. Jan was a true City of London Livery Clerk – she knew the City well and the other Clerks, dignitaries, officials and customs. During my year she always made sure that I was appropriately dressed for the occasion and on time for all functions with good advice on the event, speeches, etc.”

Jan leaves behind her husband Peter and their children, Philip and Sara. She will be remembered with fondness, respect, and deep gratitude for her warmth, wit, and lasting contributions to the life of the Company.

In accordance with her wishes, there will be no funeral. She has been cremated in Spain, where she had lived for several years with her Peter. Jan will be greatly missed by all who knew her.