Ferndown | Posted on November 4th, 2024 | return to news
Dad’s Army enthusiast remembered in Ferndown
AE Joliffe & Son marked the passing of Dale Johnson with a window dedicated to ‘Private James Frazer from Dad’s Army’.
Dale Johnson, 85, a historian and lecturer who lived in Ferndown and portrayed Private James Frazer from ‘Dad’s Army’ at many local events died recently, but he is being remembered in the window of AE Joliffe & Son in Ferndown.
His widow Bridgette has loaned the branch of Douch Family Funeral Directors her husband’s uniform and some of his memorabilia for the head-turning display to mark Remembrance Day.
With a snappy salute and a perfect Scots’ accent, Dale would often warn with a smile, “We’re doomed, doomed, all doomed I tell you!”
His dedication to keeping the spirit of the Home Guard alive was extraordinary and he travelled the country with his group, entertaining and educating others about the real history of the Second World War.
Debbie Brown, who manages the branch, said: “Dale was a part of Ferndown and his collection of Home Guard memorabilia was second to none.
“Among his prized possessions was a 1933 Austin 7 van, complete with Home Guard livery, still bearing its original licence plate and the nickname ‘AUTOGOPHASTA’.
“This iconic vehicle, along with his incredible collection of equipment, showcased his passion for preserving history.
“He was always keen to inform people about the war and educate young people and we felt a window in his memory would be entirely fitting.
“We were privileged to arrange his funeral, knowing what an important local person he was.
“We are extremely grateful to Bridgette for lending us some of Dale’s memorabilia and his uniform.
“People have been stopping to look in the window and it’s wonderful that Dale is still raising awareness.”
The display won Ferndown Town Council’s best dressed shop window competition on 26 October.
A memorial service for Dale will be held on Thursday 21 November at 1.00pm at All Saints Church, Hampreston.
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