Barney Meyers left an indelible impression

Brad Rigden

I’ve been recalling poignant memories of “Mr. Meyers”, which date back to January 1984, when I attended my first assembly as a pupil at King David Primary School, Victory Park, during his tenure as headmaster, through to the last occasion where we saw each other, at a funeral of a former pupil of his, in September 2001.

“Mr. Meyers” invested a deeply personal and genuine interest, in each of his pupils, which persisted beyond their leaving his charge. He knew each of us by name, and recalled every detail, effortlessly and indefinitely. 

As time passed, I’d expected him to forget me, however after having not seen him in a decade, he reminisced over a discussion we’d had 15 years prior.

I shall certainly remain humbled and grateful for having been privileged enough to have been one of his pupils. His guidance and nurturing in academics, sportsmanship, discipline and spirituality have been influential pillars in my life, shaping the ethics and standards to which I conduct myself, and ultimately, expect to be measured. 

I shall remember him as an authoritative figure, an educator, a mentor, a chess player and a true friend. 

He wasn’t the tallest of men, yet he towered over us all.

 London