Noel Davies

Noel Davies was a larger than life character, who lost his short battle against a particularly aggressive tumour in November 2009.

Noel was a consummate Australian whose accent became stronger and prouder in direct relationship to his native country's sporting prowess. Born in 1946 he attended school in Wollongong, New South Wales. He subsequently attended and graduated BDS in 1969 from the University of Sydney, having completed his clinical training at the United Dental Hospital in Sydney.

An Australian who said that he was forced to leave his homeland to avoid sport, he'd decided that Australians were way too competitive for his taste. This was an excellent example of Noel's dry sense of humour as he became one of the most competitive, ardent and enthusiastic of bridge players to the extent of engaging in online bridge tournaments at 3am whilst on holiday in Singapore.

Noel was predeceased by his first wife Janine who died in 1992 following long-term renal problems. Noel and April were married in 1995. He is survived by April and by his daughter Karen, also a GDP in the Southampton area, his son Mark, who works in IT, and step-daughters Eugenie and Camille.

Noel built up two excellent dental practices in the Fair Oak and Swaythling districts of Southampton. He was an active member for many years of the British Dental Association, being the Chairman of the Southampton section as well as a leading light and providing a venue for various BDA committee meetings. He also chaired Southampton Local Dental Committee where he was usually either at or the epicentre of any insurrection, especially when it involved faceless bureaucracy, but willingly helping other dentists when he could.

Noel's standards were very high and he always strived to provide the best treatment for his patients. People sought out Noel's company; his wonderfully laid back personality, good humour and wide knowledge on many subjects made it a pleasure to be in his company. He was a wonderful host with great bonhomie. This perfect gentleman will be sorely missed by all his family, friends, colleagues and patients.