John William COLEY

John COLEY Obituary

Coley, John William (John). John William Coley, MBE. 28 January 1935 - 17 March 2026. Painter, teacher, gallery director, and champion of Aotearoa's visual arts. Peacefully in Auckland on 17 March 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, 10th April 2026, at 11 am. In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to The Christchurch Art Gallery Foundation cagf.org.nz/the-foundation. Messages to the Coley family may be sent c/- [email protected]

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Published by The New Zealand Herald on Mar. 20, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
for John COLEY

4 Entries

Simon Coley

April 9, 2026

On behalf of Fay, Jason, Sam, and myself - thank you all for these beautiful messages. We've been overwhelmed by the memories and love. Dad would have been so pleased to know how many lives he touched.

John's memorial service is tomorrow, Friday 10 April at 11 am at The Grey Lynn RSC. For anyone who can't be there in person, there will be a livestream: youtube.com/live/vrd5ICmadIw

With love, Simon Coley

Lorraine Clemens

March 23, 2026

Our deepest sympathy and love , Fay and Family . My brother Michael sent John's obituary to me this morning from the Ch.Ch. Press. I have written memories in the Ch.Ch. Press. Such sadness for N.Z.'s Art Community. His wealth of knowledge of the 'Art Period' he lived through is irreplaceable. The irrepressible joy, fun and warmth he gave us all will never be forgotten.
Lauri Clemens

Janet Kenny

March 22, 2026

I have recorded my affectionate sorrow at John's passing on a Christchurch obituary notice.
Because I want to be sure that his wife and lifelong invaluable loving support, Fay, sees my message. My deepest sympathy Fay, and of course to your family. John was a wonderful friend.

Ron Law

March 20, 2026

John's picture is in my School photo, I remember from the Central School in 1942 years. He lived in King Street way back. R I P John

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John William COLEY

John COLEY Obituary

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