As many of you will no doubt know by now, we received the very sad news yesterday that Paul Heys, co-founder and Managing Director of Key Yachting has passed away. Paul was enjoying a much-deserved holiday in the Caribbean with his wife Marie-Claude and came into difficulties while swimming on Monday morning.
Paul was a much-loved Husband, Dad, Brother and Granddad, and was greatly admired in the sailing community; sailing was his life and passion. Paul will be missed terribly by everyone who knew him.
Paul, of course, has a long association with our class. Through Key Yachting he has provided most of us with our yachts, new and second hand. But his influence reaches far beyond this. He infected us with his enthusiasm for sailing, a constant smiling presence both on and off the water. Monitoring our progress, urging us on to greater competitive heights and making sure at the end of the day we had a beer in our hand and wide grin across our faces.
We’ll all hold our own memories of him. Mine will be a smiling Paul, late at night on Cowes high street during a recent J-Cup beckoning me into the bar for one last rum.
He will leave a void that will be hard to fill. He will be sadly missed. Our thoughts are with Marie-Claude, Gemma and the rest of his family.
Updated details from Key Yachting on paying your respects to Paul are as follows:
Anyone who wishes to attend the funeral is very welcome. This will take place on Tuesday 19th March.
As the River Hamble and the village were such a huge part of Paul’s life, the funeral car will pass through the village, and along The Quay, on the way to the crematorium. This is an opportunity for anyone who wishes to pay their respects. We estimate this will take place around 13.30.
14.30 – 16.00: Service at Test Valley Crematorium, Ridge Lane, Romsey SO51 6AB. As we anticipate large numbers, please be aware that many guests will be asked to stand throughout the service.
https://www.testvalleycrematorium.co.uk/
16.30 – late: Drinks and reminiscing at the Royal Southern Yacht Club, Hamble SO31 4HB.
https://www.royal-southern.co.uk/
To help us with our planning, please let us know you are coming by replying to this email.
Dress code: Whatever’s comfortable, including regatta t-shirts that remind you of Paul!
As opposed to floral contributions, please give generously to Hampshire & Isle of Wight Air Ambulance.
J/109 UK & Ireland Class Association 
1 thought on “Paul Heys”