Doctor, 84 dies after 'a life of service'

10:45am Wednesday 5th December 2007

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A WELL-known GP has died aged 84.

Dr Alan Joseph Anthony Rebello, of Gib Lane, Hoghton, died on Saturday at his home. He was a GP for 30 years until 1988 in the Feniscowles area.

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Dr Rebello was also well-known for his work in a number of societies and clubs, such as the British Medical Association, Guild of Catholic Doctors and Blackburn and District Medical Society.

He was also a former president of Blackburn Disabled Group, a member of the Catenian Association and the Blackburn Lions, as well as being a governor at St Paul's RC Primary School, Blackburn, between 1993 and 2000.

But his family said his hallmark was a life of service to God.

He was one of East Lancashire's leading lay preachers and had been awarded the Knight of St Gregory and Knight of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre.

Married to Mary Josephine, who was known as Maisie, he had sons Aloysius (Louis) Joseph Anthony, André Joseph Anthony, Anthony (Tony) Francis Alan and Alfred Christopher.

He leaves three grandchildren, Benedict, James and Joseph.

Outside of work, he was a big Blackburn Rovers fan.

His son Andre, who is the Liverpool coroner, said another of his father's hobbies was "social work", such was his dedication to helping people.

He said: "His retirement was received with genuine sorrow by all for whom he cared.

"It is fairly clear that he would have been very uncomfortable and unhappy working within the present structure of primary care. Richer is not always wealthier.

"His ability to relate with patients and those others he served is undoubtedly founded in his deep personal faith.

"His hallmark was a life of service; service to God through care for and respect of the dignity of all humanity."