In Memoriam: John Proctor, 89
Four Decades with Chase UK, from Cashier to Manager, 1956-1997
John Proctor, who began as a cashier at Chase Manhattan's Berkeley Square, London, office and rose through various positions with the corporate bank until his retirement in 1997, died on August 29, 2025 in England. He was 89. Proctor was born in Tooting, London, in 1936, and was the eldest of twin boys. He grew up there, except for the duration of World War II, when the they were evacuated with their mother to live with a farming family in Devon.
On their return to London, he was educated at St.Mary's Church of England Primary School, followed by Balham Central Secondary School. The twins left school at 15 years old and worked as salesmen in the Fortnum & Mason department store in Piccadilly, London, where the Royal Family did their shopping.
Three years later, the twins were called up to do their National Service in the Royal Air Force. They worked as wireless operators at an air force base in Cornwall. On returning to civilian life, John joined Chase Manhattan bank in Berkeley Square, London, He spent nearly four decades with the Bank in various roles across the organization before retiring in 1997. According to his close friend Allan Wright, he had various roles in Marketing and Risk and was Manager of the Knightsbridge Branch that was opened in the late 1970s to complement Berkeley Square.
Outside of work, he had a real interest in music, sport and studying the American Civil War.
Among his susrvivors are Eleanor Proctor, his wife of more than 56 years, four children and seven grandchildren.
Donations in his memory should be sent in his name to The Alzheimer's Society.
Remembrances
Please send remembrances to news@chasealum.org
From Alan Naughton: Such a lovely gentle man. Remember fondly our time in Bill Else’s team in Woolgate House where John was the calming influence over Bonkers Bill and Andy Trenouth. Never heard him raise his voice, quiet authority and always a ready knowing smile.
From Bob Mitchell: Thought fondly of John last week when I went by Connaught House/1 Mount Street in a visit to London. He was one of the first I worked with in 1969, and a great buddy. RIP.
From Allan Wright: Words cannot express my feelings on hearing of the sad loss of JP. He was not only a colleague, having first met him in 1971, but a very close friend that I looked up to and spent many great hours with. He was a true character, and we had lots of laughs together. He will be sorely missed by everyone.
From Tony Julien: Very truly sadly to learn that JP (sheep shearer extraordinary) died. Yes, JP had the photo of him in Australia - I was overwhelmed by him. A truly excellent, honest and humble Gentlemen - JP was very supportive and fun, laughter etc. Great guy. Plus JP doted on his children. May his soul rest in peace
From Jumbo Jewitt: I worked with John in the UK Corporate Bank in the 1980s; he was one of the most enjoyable people that I have ever worked with, and extremely professional. Polite, detail- oriented and great with clients. His ability to disagree with management in a constructive manner, and his age and life experience enabling him to mentor the more volatile younger bankers made him a highly valued member of the group.
Very sad to hear of his death, and my deepest sympathies are with his delightful wife, Ellie, and their children. Thank you John, I’m glad I knew you.
Very sad to hear of his death, and my deepest sympathies are with his delightful wife, Ellie, and their children. Thank you John, I’m glad I knew you.
From Malcolm Bone: It goes without saying that he was a true gentleman and always fun to be around when we got together, which was sadly a number of years ago now, but he will always be fondly remembered. God Bless Him and RIP
From Deborah Nightingale: Another reminder of how we should make the most of our time here on earth. Memories just landed in my little head of him sitting in his office (next door to Regina, can't remember her last name). His white hair and how the front part of it would fall over the front of his face, and he would do this head toss, like he was a model being photographed, which did not go with the professorial personality I had of him—a lovely man, and as mentioned, an excellent-natured mentor. Prayers for his family as he now rests in peace.
From Heather Smith: He was a great mentor and so easy to talk to. Gentle, good mannered and a true believer in what was right and wrong. May he rest in peace.
From John Needham: John was a one off and as you say, and a true gentleman. He made my time at the bank memorable for all the right reasons. He’ll be sadly missed by his family.