WWII veteran Edward Thomas “Ted” Hayford passed away peacefully on 3 October 2025, aged 102.
Born and raised in North London, Ted grew up with a strong sense of community and service that would stay with him throughout his long life. During the Second World War, he served with distinction in the Royal Navy aboard minesweepers operating in the Mediterranean, North Africa, and Norway a period he remembered with both pride and humility.
After the war, Ted turned his hand to a variety of trades, working first as a tiled fireplace maker and later as a baker. He went on to train as a London bus driver before qualifying as a London taxi driver — a role he loved for the stories, friendships, and sense of independence it brought him. Ted eventually concluded his working life as a director’s chauffeur for Rank Hovis McDougall, where his professionalism and good humour were highly valued.
A lifelong supporter of Tottenham Hotspur, Ted remained loyal to his team through every high and low, following their fortunes with enthusiasm well into his later years.
Dick Goodwin, Vice President of the Taxi Charity for Military Veterans, said:
“Uncle Ted was one of life’s true gentlemen, kind, humble, and always ready with a smile or a story. He represented the very best of his generation and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”
Ted will be remembered for his warmth, gentle wit, and unwavering work ethic a true gentleman of his generation who lived a full and remarkable life.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
To fund and facilitate their work, the charity is wholly reliant on donations, grants and sponsorship.
