Stuart Johnson, above, was long-time GM of BROWN’S HOTEL LONDON, and his memorial service today, at St Paul’s Church Knightsbridge in Central London, saw the genuine great and good of hospitality gathered to remember him. What a stylish service, stunning white flowers and superb singing. Sir Rocco Forte read A Poem by John Dunne, and Lord Thurso shared how he had recommended Stuart Johnson to the Master Innholders. After the service, a reception was held at MANDARIN ORIENTAL LONDON HYDE PARK.
Stuart was unassuming and so welcoming. Nothing was too much trouble for him. He was one of those quintessential English gentlemen that you did not know really existed.
He was known to dress as a beefeater, to welcome Americans. Yes, he was also fun, revelling in a Tracy Emin fluorescent artwork in his restaurant, laying on a street jazzband, outside in Dover Street, to brighten the mood at the nadir of the pandemic.
Hospitality needs more Stuart Johnsons, and in his memory his family and Master Innholders are establishing bursaries at The Edge, a working hotel school. https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/the-master-innholders
