Willoughby Wilson
Former consultant general surgeon Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast (b
Straid, County Antrim, 1923; q Belfast 1946; FRCS Ed 1952, OBE 1982), d 13
March 2004.
Willoughby was appointed consultant surgeon at the early age of 31 and
specialised in endocrine and colorectal surgery. However, from 1969 he was
heavily involved in treating victims of "The Troubles," and in recognition
of this work was awarded the OBE. He was a charismatic figure within the
hospital, much loved by his patients and widely regarded as a "surgeon’s
surgeon." He had a lifelong interest in all sport, but particularly in rugby,
and was a past president of the Irish Rugby Football Union. He was proud
of his membership of both the Moynihan Chirurgical Club and the Ulster Surgical
Club and, in the context of both, was wonderful, amusing, and convivial company!
He is survived by his wife, Kay, also medically qualified; daughter Claire;
and three sons, John, David, and Richard, all of whom are doctors. [Richard
Clarke, Colin Russell]