Michael J. Cobbett, RIP - A true servant of Mary

Michael Cobbett died during Eastertide after a brief illness. His Requiem Mass was held at his parish church of St Agatha's in Dawlish on the South Devon coast on 10th May with a congregation, limited by coronavirus restrictions, to members of his family and colleagues from the Legion of Mary...

During the service they heard that Michael, who was born on 9th April 1939 in Worcester Park, Surrey, did his National Service after leaving school and, when he asked for an overseas posting, was sent to the Shetland Islands - not quite what he had in mind, though!

He had a long Civil Service career checking taxes and VAT payments for businesses. When his parents, Doris and Cyril retired to Dawlish in 1974, he requested a transfer to the Exeter tax office from where he worked until he retired.

Michael never learned to drive but travelled everywhere by train for work or for the Legion of Mary. His colleagues at church were amazed how frequently he managed to attend meetings all over the South-west and even further afield. He loved to travel and never let the fact that he didn't drive prevent him from going anywhere … at home or abroad.

His sister Mary and her family live in Canada. His niece and nephews sent their recollections of how much their Uncle Michael used to love to walk. On a visit to Vancouver in 1986 - the year of Expo '86 - he visited all the 65 pavilions on site, they said.

Michael joined the Legion of Mary as a young man, around the age of 17. For more than forty years he has helped to lead the Legion in the Diocese of Plymouth which covers Devon, Cornwall and parts of Dorset. He has set an example to all not only with his energy, fortitude, perseverance and leadership but also with his unswerving devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, ensuring that, through his years of very active and faithful service, he fulfilled her commission to 'Bring souls to my Son.'

Michael was a kind, gentle and caring man who energetically turned his Faith into action as a holy and gifted evangelist and witness. He brought the Word of God to countless people that he met in his daily life and during his unremitting service in Our Lady's battle for souls.

May he rest in the peace of Christ. Amen.