HE was a familiar face in pulpits across Hampshire and Wiltshire. Veteran preacher Roy Marke, pictured, who lived in Romsey for 30 years, has died at the age of 94.

Born and educated in Taunton, Somerset, he migrated to Hampshire in his twenties.

He had various careers and retired after almost 25 years with Southern Gas, and had been the showroom manager in Winchester.

Roy was a gifted speaker and throughout his adult life preached at churches and chapels all over Hampshire and Wiltshire, often assisted by his wife Hilda who was an accomplished pianist, organist and singer.

In 1985 he was appointed president of the northern district of the Southern Baptist Association. During his presidency he preached at every Baptist Church in the northern district.

After retirement Roy and Hilda travelled around the world. Roy caught the travel bug and became a tour guide for a Christian organisation.

He escorted several groups of overseas visitors around the United Kingdom and abroad.

Later he concentrated more on community work in Romsey.

Roy drove for the Red Cross and hosted drop-in coffee mornings for older people.

Hilda passed away in 2006 when the couple were only a few months from their 70th wedding anniversary.

Three years ago Roy published his autobiography, Mark Times which touched on his life as a preacher. Being an author was his last career move as his health suddenly deteriorated in mid-2006.

After several hospital stays he moved to Marie Louise House, which overlooks Romsey Abbey, where he died.

Paying tribute, his son-in-law David Kynaston said: "Roy was a totally unusual and nice man who conducted his life to a simple set of beliefs.

"This made Roy fun to be with and one quickly realised that this was someone who dearly loved his life, his family and friends without a question."

He is survived by two sons, two daughters, 13 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.