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RIP Mark “Minnie” Whittaker

In Loving Memory of Mark “Minnie” Whittaker

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our founding Chair and former Non-Executive Director, Mark Minnie Whittaker.
 
Oxford Pride was formed under Mark’s visionary guidance, and he remained a cherished part of our organisation until his health unfortunately prevented him from taking a more prominent role. We were honoured to have him as our guest speaker for World AIDS Day back in December and deeply appreciated the retrospective article he wrote for this year’s Pride Guide.
 
Mark was a leading light in the Oxford LGBTQ+ community, serving as a City Councillor and a dedicated member of the Board of Directors for Northgate Hall, the LGBTQ+ Community Centre on St Michael’s Street. His stoicism in facing his illness was truly admirable, always thinking of his friends and his beloved mother, Anne, right to the end.
Words cannot fully express what Mark meant to the Oxford community and to us, the Oxford Pride organising team. His unwavering support, wisdom, and love will be dearly missed, along with his dry humour and cheekiest grin.
 
Our hearts go out to all his friends and, most of all, to Anne. Sleep well, dear friend. 
You will forever remain in our hearts.
 
With love and remembrance, 
The Oxford Pride Team.

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