At a juncture in my career, I thought today about something Mr Bliss said to me back in Year 6, in about 2003. I thought I’d give his name a google and see where his career took him. I was very saddened to read of his death. I remember year 6 as a time of curiosity and learning, under Mr Bliss’s leadership. He directed our school play, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which we loved doing. He helped us sort out our minor friendship disputes with a no-nonsense approach, patience and kindness. I also remember him not batting an eyelid when I asked him the meaning of a rude word. I used to look forward to his feedback on my written work. All year he made me feel that I could do things and I will hold onto his belief in me as I ponder the next steps in my life, 20 years later. All the best to his family, who I’m sure are rightly incredibly proud of his legacy. I wish I had googled his name in time to tell him personally what a brilliant teacher he had been and what an impact he has had on my life.

Lovely Jon was a port in the storm. He was unfailingly calm and always kind. Jon loved a giggle. I know how much he will be missed. Xx

Jon was that rare person - kind, generous, gentle and joyful. He managed to combine both peacefulness and playfulness in equal measure. A most lovely man

Such a gentle, creative and positive man, a great teacher to my children. Our thoughts go to his family. Florence

Ir's hard to believe that our friendship started 50 years ago. It was wonderful being a student with Jon, in the small group of us who developed a close and lasting friendship. A true friendship that remained alive over the years even if we didn't see each other very often. A friendship that will stay alive in our very fond memories.

You could not ask for a better uncle than my Uncle Jon. I have a lifetime of happy memories. Such a kind, gentle man. I will miss him so much. Julia x

Thinking of you a lot, Jon. Family times together many years ago, and more recently meals out, Dishoom! I'll miss you and thinking of your family. Mick

Being in Jon's presence was always such a gift. I found that being away from my hectic house, the Bliss family was such a peaceful place that had such an impact on my teenage years. A cup of tea and a chat with Jon was always so nourishing for the soul. I always felt looked out for and could tell how much Jon really cared about what I was up to and always responded with such kindness and genuine curiosity. Thank you Jon for all that you have given, you will always be remembered as one of a kind. All my love to the family, Kona xxxxx

We are still coming to terms with losing Jon, he was such a lovely, kind and gentle man. He will be greatly missed. Sending all our love across the miles to Karen, Amy, Eithne and Caitlin.

Jon you were so kind and willing to help but so modest. The big space you leave behind is a reminder of that and you will be sadly missed Andy x

I was sorry to hear the sad news of Jon’s passing. I had the privilege of working at SS Philip & James Primary School with him for a few years. I’ll always remember his kind and gentle nature to the students and staff. Jon was such a good sport and would willingly join in all the baby shower games that were done for fellow staff members. My sympathies go to his lovely family at this time. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Judy Jackson

We were so sorry to hear of Jon’s passing. I , Nick , met Jon in 1979 when we were both PGCE students at Lady Spencer Churchill college ( Oxford Poly ) We shared the same humour , musical tastes and politics and he was a good friend and colleague during that time and in our early years of teaching. He visited us when we moved to Wales and although we somehow sadly lost touch we did receive news of Jon through a mutual friend. We remember him as a gentle , kind , intelligent and thoughtful man. We send love to all his family and friends in their loss. Nick and Gwawr Tuffnell

I have many happy memories of teaching with Jon at Kirtlington. His thoughtfulness and gentle sense of humour could always be relied upon to help the day along. You will be sorely missed Jon. Mary

Jon has been a dear friend for over 30 years when our children began growing up together at Peers School Creche. I'll remember him for his many wonderful qualities, including his love of film as part of our group. I'll miss him very much.

We came late to your family Jon but you made us feel so welcome. We have many happy memories of our family get togethers, we will always treasure them. You had that thoughtful way of making sure you talked to everyone, showing a genuine interest in our lives. Always with that smile and a twinkle in your eye. Remembered with love, you will be missed so much, Linda, John, Laura, Alex, Danny, Angela & children

Tío Jon, You will be missed. Such a loving uncle. Lewis

I will always remember Mr Bliss as an encouraging, positive and enthusiastic influence throughout my time at kirtlington Primary. The Devon trips, the Christmas plays were always a highlight.

Sending condolences from the Bryson family, remembering Jon's time as head teacher at Kirtlington, and when I had a stint as a governor at the school. His gentleness and humour, plus his kindness and respect for individuals always shone through. Both our two held him in high esteem and send their thoughts, 'thanks for him being a great head teacher'.

Jon wasn’t just my children’s teacher and head master, he wasn’t just my teaching colleague and fellow governor for many years, he was a friend. I have so many good memories - and funny ones of our school residential trips to Devon! Rest in peace Jon, you’ll be much missed. Carmen

I have very fond memories of Jon, back in the days of Peers School Day Nursery, when I had the privilege and pleasure of looking after Jon and Karens 3 beautiful girls. Jon was kind and gentle and always smiling! He was totally committed in helping the parent cooperative nursery to run smoothly. I remember he was wise and he was witty… Later our paths crossed again when he became head teacher at the village school in Kirtlington where I live, and my own children went to school. ‘Mr Bliss’ was a bit of a legend and is still spoken of fondly amongst the now, grown up children who were lucky enough to have been under his care and guidance. Sending Love to Karen, Amy, Eithne and Caitlin…Rest in Peace Jon… Much Love Shelley X

A friend from way back in student days in the early 1970s, Jon was invariably kind, gentle, witty and clever. He’ll be much missed because even though we didn’t catch up often in recent years, when we did we just slipped back into the easy conversations between much valued old pals who shared a house together for 3 years or so in London. Shine on, Jon. Dinah (and Pete)

Jon was a such a dear friend for 51 years. He was even my best man when I got married in Paris in December 1978. Whenever I managed to get over to London, he would travel down from Oxford for us to spend some time together. My heartfelt condolences to his family.

Mr Bliss was our wonderful Headteaher at Kirtlington when I joined, it was a great experience. Sending thoughts to his friends and family.

Very fond memories of a lovely man who taught and guided my children at Kirtlington Primary, he always had time for everyone. X

Sending my thoughts to Jon's family at this sad time. Mr Bliss was a brilliant head teacher at my primary school in Kirtlington, and my time there was a very happy one! Rest in peace x

My deepest sympathy to his family. Such a kind man. My children had happy primary school years under his headship at Kirtlington. RIP.

So sorry to hear this sad news Fond memories of Jon while he was Headteacher at Kirtlington C of E primary school. A pleasure to know, as a parent and a friend.

Thank you for setting up this memorial to Jonathan. We hope that you find it a positive experience developing the site and that it becomes a place of comfort and inspiration for you to visit whenever you want or need to.

I am I and you are you, whatever we were to each other that we still are. Speak to me in the easy way which you always used. Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight? Life means all that it ever meant, it is the same as it ever was.