John COLEY Obituary

MBE

28 January 1935 - 17 March 2026

Painter, teacher, gallery director, and champion of Aotearoa's visual arts. Peacefully in Auckland on March 17, 2026, aged 91. Dearly loved husband of Fay. Much-loved father of Simon, Jason, and Sam, and their partners Jodi, Debbie, and Emilie. Treasured Grandad of Sofia, Lulu, and Thomas. Former director of the Robert McDougall Art Gallery, Christchurch (1981–1996). Founding member of 20/20 Vision. A colourist of rare joy whose paintings grace collections across New Zealand and Australia. John's watercolours and journals trace a life enjoying the landscapes, cityscapes and lives he loved. A memorial service to celebrate John's life will be held at The Grey Lynn RSC in Auckland on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 11.00am. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to The Christchurch Art Gallery Foundation https://christchurchartgallery.org.nz/support/ Messages to the Coley family may be sent c/- [email protected]