Don Egginton, a distinguished professor of accounting at the University of Bristol and a prolific artist, has passed away at the age of 92. A man of many talents, Egginton balanced his decades-long academic career with a passionate devotion to the arts, leaving an indelible mark on both fields. Known for his kindness and community spirit, he exemplified the ideal of a well-rounded scholar who transcended the boundaries of academia.
An Academic Journey
Born in the East End of London during the tumultuous years of World War II, Don Egginton faced adversity from a young age. The son of Eileen and Albert Egginton, he experienced the devastation of the Blitz, which forced his family to evacuate to Norfolk. His father, who had narrowly escaped Dunkirk, tragically lost his life as a prisoner of war in Burma.
Egginton attended Hammond’s grammar school in Swaffham, where he excelled academically, passing 11 O-level exams. However, financial constraints necessitated that he leave school early to work. After a stint in banking and completing his national service, he was accepted into the London School of Economics in 1957, where he studied economics and accounting, paving the way for a remarkable academic career.
In 1960, he graduated and subsequently trained as a chartered accountant. His journey in academia began shortly thereafter, as he joined Bristol University as a lecturer in accounting in 1963. His dedication and expertise led him to become a full professor by 1986 and head of the economics department in 1990. Egginton retired as an emeritus professor in 1997, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in teaching and scholarship.
A Commitment to the Arts
Parallel to his academic pursuits, Egginton nurtured a lifelong passion for art. Over 50 years, he created an impressive body of work across various media, often drawing inspiration from renowned artists like Picasso and Banksy. His talent was evident in the eclectic nature of his art, which frequently surprised audiences with its expressive quality.
His artistic contributions were recognised through exhibitions at prestigious venues such as the Bath Society of Artists and the Royal West of England Academy. Notably, Ace Arts in Somerton hosted a retrospective of his work in 2024, aptly titled *Believe in Me and I’ll Believe in You*, named after his sculpture of a golden unicorn. Egginton’s artistic journey was not merely a hobby; it was a vital part of who he was.
Community Engagement and Legacy
Don Egginton was more than an academic and artist; he was a dedicated community member. One of the first volunteers for the Samaritans, he actively engaged in local politics as a member of the Liberal Party, standing for council elections throughout his life. His passion for community enhancement led him to establish a Bristol community garden, which continues to thrive as a designated “town green.” He was also pivotal in initiating a local rewilding project, ensuring it would be preserved for future generations.
His contributions to the community were matched by his unwavering kindness and compassion. He is survived by his three children, David, Elizabeth, and Jane, as well as his beloved grandchildren, Sasha and Jack.
Why it Matters
The life of Don Egginton serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact one individual can have across multiple spheres. His dedication to education, art, and community engagement exemplifies a holistic approach to life that inspires others to pursue their passions while giving back to society. As we reflect on his legacy, we are reminded that the pursuit of knowledge and creativity can coexist, enriching not only our own lives but also the lives of those around us. Don Egginton will be remembered not just for his academic and artistic achievements, but for his unwavering commitment to kindness and community service.
