The much-respected Commander Michael Healy RN MBE died in a Riviera nursing home on Tuesday, February 3…

The former Royal Navy officer was best known along the Riviera and in the Principality as the chairman the local branch of the Royal British Legion. Eric Blair MBE, the British consul in Monaco, described Michael as ”A great representative of the Royal British Legion. He always had a story to tell about his life when in the Navy.”

Vanessa Ilsley, the Monaco representative of the Royal British Legion, added: “I was always impressed by Michael’s energy in regards to the Royal British Legion.   He managed to be in several towns in one day whether it was Victory Day or Remembrance Sunday or Liberation Day. He seemed to be able to juggle flag delivery, collection for the Poppy Appeal and be present at ceremonies with great efficiency.”

A keen sailor all his life, Michael kept his small motor cruiser moored in Monaco for several years, before taking it to live out its long life further down the coast. He was also a keen member of the Beaverbrook Circle of Cap d’Ail, where he could be found on all occasions with a glass of ‘rouge’ in hand.

Michael was a regular face at St. Paul’s Church in Monte-Carlo, where he attended Sunday services in rotation with Holy Trinity Church, Nice. It was Michael who for many years delivered a speech on Remembrance Day at the bust of Sir Winston Churchill. Inevitably, he took the opportunity not only to recall the British and Commonwealth fallen of past wars, but also to call for stronger armed forces to face down the conflicts of the future.

A cherished personal memory I have of Michael was when he took to his feet at the end of a family service at St. Paul’s to point across to me in my ‘usual’ pew and welcome me back, on behalf of the entire congregation, from an extended stay in the UK where I had had heart surgery. I had not expected this at all, but it was so typical of the man and I was deeply touched.

Michael endeared himself to all who knew him. He will be remembered as a colourful and resolutely positive character who cared deeply about his country and continued serving it for many, many years following the end of active service. Commander Michael Healy RN MBE, your passing is another significant milestone on a journey we are all taking. Rest in Peace.

The funeral will take place at St. Paul’s Church, Monaco, on Friday, February 13, at 10:00.

Images: Healy family