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A former Preston City Council senior staff member has died aged 53.
Stephen Parkinson worked for the Town Hall for nearly 17 years and rose to become head of policy, communications and performance. Before this Stephen worked at Lancaster City Council for 12 years.
After leaving Preston City Council then Stephen started a number of his own business ventures and was most recently working on a project for the Environment Agency.
He died in late September – at home – after what his family described as suffering from mental health related illness.
His daughter Lucy Parkinson, 28, told Blog Preston: “My dad was born on 30th June 1971, he was 53 years old. Way too young to go.
“More latterly after Preston City Council, my dad set up his own business coaching people in life and business. He always felt passionate about helping people. Individually and collectively. I know he personally helped people with addiction issues, marriage breakdowns and big life changes.
“He also helped people level up their businesses with PR and marketing. My dad was extremely hard working in everything he did.
“He also believed in doing things for the greater good and was very passionate about sustainability and climate change. Creating a green generation for our children and children’s children.
“He set up Eco Heroes which was designed for children to engage in issues related to climate change, to bring awareness and understanding for the younger generation.
“It is sad because he was so very giving to others, often pouring from a limited cup to help others. I wish he knew how to receive from others more.
“He was also a big Preston North End fan. We held a season ticket in the Graham Alexander days, for a number of years where we went to every home game.
“I know he listened to all the games on the crackly radio and was genuinely passionate about his home club.”
A significant role in Preston becoming a city
Chief executive of Preston City Council, Adrian Phillips, said: “We are greatly saddened to hear of Stephen’s passing and our immediate thoughts are with his children, family and friends.
“Stephen played a key role in the council’s communications team joining in August 2000 as Public Relations Officer. He was promoted to Head of Communications in 2003, and in 2011 to Head of Policy, Communications and Performance, before leaving the Council in December 2016.
“Amongst his many achievements whilst at the Council Stephen had a significant role in our successful bid for City Status in 2002 as well as his work on the first Preston Guild of the digital era in 2012.
“Throughout his career in public service Stephen always worked with dedication, skill and great energy. I and many of his former colleagues mourn his passing.”
A Positive Future and funeral details
A Justgiving page has been set up in Stephen’s memory to raise funds for Lancaster and Morecambe-based Positive Futures who support people with mental health needs.
His daughter said this was a charity which Stephen was ‘very fond of’.
Stephen’s funeral will take place on Thursday 17 October at 12.30pm at Beetham Crematorium.
Following the funeral a celebration of Stephen’s life will take place at The Longlands Hotel, Tewitfield, Carnforth, Lancashire, LA6 1JH.
Did you know Stephen? You can leave a tribute in the comments below or email [email protected]
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