And it’s goodbye to industry veteran, Ray Leworthy, who retired on Friday 30th April after decades in the sector. Here are just a few of the comments with colleagues and ex-colleagues. A man who is universally liked and respected.
Louise Dunn, Senior National Account Manager, Hanes Brands
“I first met Ray 14 years ago in July this year when I started at what was then DBA! He met me with a warm smile and a wonderful personality.
The next 3-4 weeks, I toured East Anglia with him being my trainer, we stayed away at various locations and I soon knew that Ray’s favourite dinner was ribs and cider. He was a hard worker training to all hours until eventually, he let me loose in an account in Great Yarmouth when I came out of the account and looked around… struggling to find him. I spotted him on a bench tucking into some seaside chips…. Once he saw me we then moved swiftly on to the next account!!!
Another memory that sticks out for me was the twice a year AIS/Cenpac shows. At the start of every show Ray would walk round to all the team individually to what I thought would be a pep talk about the day, but no: it was basically what was on the menu at the show (was always good) and where did we want to go for dinner (usually TGI’s) 😉
I truly believe it is Ray’s great training in those early years that got me to the position I am in today! So that I forever thankful for.”
Philip Horner, Philip Horner Agencies
“I am really glad to hear that Ray is now hanging up his order forms and retiring. I worked with Ray at Playtex for fifteen years, as a colleague, but more importantly as a friend. Ray was a stalwart member of the UK field, who was always there with a fountain of knowledge if anyone needed it.
We would always put the world to rights, over a Bloody Mary at the bar at conference time. I have always said he was one of the good guys in the industry, always placing the needs of his accounts first.
Well done Ray. Best wishes to you Trish and the family.”
And the final word goes to his wife, Trish… 
“We met in April 1980 and got married in August 1981. We have 3 children (2 boys and a girl) all of whom still live locally with their wives/husband and they have 7 children between them.
He started working for Playtex now Hanes in August 1987 but has put in 40 years in the business. And whilst I thought he would find it difficult during lockdown, he took to it like a duck to water. Ray is and has been an avid supporter of Exeter City Football Club since he was 5 years old. He is a season ticket holder, a trust holder and a passionate supporter of the Club.
He has loved his job meeting all of his customers and especially his colleagues. He will miss them all. He has been overwhelmed by the messages he has received regarding his retirement.”
Everyone at Underlines wishes you a long, healthy and happy retirement. Ray will be missed as one of the most popular and respected men in our industry.
