Tributes paid to Sheffield butcher who '˜united his community' for 46 years

Granddad Neville Levick, owner of N & S Levick & Son butchers in Woodthorpe, died following a battle with cancer on October 7.

Following his death, aged 78, tributes have been paid to a ‘perfectionist’ whose stage was his shop and customers his audience.

Wife Sandra said: “I had some great times with Neville. I will miss him dearly and miss our working life together. He was a hard worker, a perfectionist and took pride in the shop looking good.

“I would like to thank each and every person who has sent good wishes to our family.”

Neville was born and grew up on Wybourn with his mother, father, three sisters and brother.

He studied at Wybourn School and later attended open air school, where he excelled in many ways.

Neville’s eyes soon opened to the world when he first saw future wife, Sandra, who worked as a chef at Dave United’s in Darnall.

The pair was married on November 27, 1965, at Aston Parish Church.

Daughter-in-law Alison said: “Sandra’s dress apparently matched the scene perfectly as it snowed so heavily there was a power cut.

“The couple were so eager to be married that the wedding went ahead anyway, with no heating, no music and no light – it was a memorable day.”

The couple’s only son, Sean, was born in 1966 and took after Neville in more ways than one, joining the trade as soon as he left school.

Sean said: “He was a great boss and great father. I will miss him dearly.”

Neville opened his butchers in 1970.

Alison said: “The business was his stage and his customers were his audience.”

Despite almost changing his mind and not buying the business, Neville slept on it and embarked on a journey for 46 years.

A service will be held at Hutcliffe Wood Crematorium, Periwood Lane, at 10.30am on Thursday. Family and close friends are welcome.