Tributes have been paid to Tony Scott, a well-known Burnham-On-Sea businessman and familiar face around town, who passed away peacefully at Musgrove Park Hospital on Wednesday 26th March, just a few days after suffering a stroke at home.
Born as Ian Anthony Scott, but known affectionately by almost everyone as Tony, he became a well-known figure in Burnham through the long-standing family businesses.
In the late 1970s, Tony left a successful career as a wages clerk in Wellworthy’s Factory in Bridgwater to join his parents, Ian and Essie, and his brother, Steve, in expanding Somerset and Avon Carpets, initially with outlets on Abingdon Street in Burnham and Station Road in Taunton before later moving onto Burnham’s High Street and Adam Street.
In the 1980s the family business acquired the former ‘Leo’s’ furniture shop on Victoria Street from The Cooperative, transforming it into Scott’s Furniture Shop. This venture was quickly followed by the successful launch of S&A Linens, which at its peak had six shops across the area. Tony retired in 2015, after the loss of both parents, Ian and Essie, and to spend more time with his family.
Tony also dedicated years alongside his wife, Sonia, running Fernery House, a popular bed and breakfast on Burnham’s Esplanade from 1992 until 2009. His youngest son, Matt, warmly recalls: “I always remember Dad juggling breakfasts for guests at Fernery House, rushing me off to school, and then running the carpet shop all day before driving me around in the evening. He’d still find the energy for paperwork and football on TV late into the small hours. His ability to handle it all with grace and energy was truly inspiring.”
Later in his retirement he played an essential role in helping his youngest son Matt and daughter-in-law Emily establish the popular Sopha furniture store in Highbridge.
Matt adds warmly: “Dad was always my sounding board. Every significant decision I’ve made was first discussed with him. His invaluable advice, extensive knowledge, and unwavering support have been the foundation of my own life and successes.”
“Dad’s legacy lives on not only through his children, grandchildren and great-grandchild through the way he inspired us not only on how to live our lives but also because he gave us a perfect role-model on how to be a dad.”
Tony is survived by his beloved wife Sonia, his three children Glenn, Fiona, and Matt, his cherished grandchildren, and great-grandchild. He will always be fondly remembered as a friendly face, a devoted family man, and a respected employer and businessman, deeply missed by all who knew him in Burnham-On-Sea and beyond.
A funeral service celebrating Tony’s life will be held at 12 mid-day on Tuesday 29th April at St. Andrew’s Church in Burnham-On-Sea.
