Don Egginton, a professor of accounting at Bristol University and head of its economics department, has died aged 92. He was also an accomplished artist who created works in various media over 50 years. His portrait of economist Alfred Marshall, based on Sir William Rothstein's 1908 painting, hangs at the university.
Early life and education
Don was born in the East End of London to Eileen (nee Burnett) and Albert Egginton, who worked as a cook and driver for the British Army. The family survived their home being bombed in the Blitz and were evacuated to Norfolk. His father made it back from Dunkirk but died as a prisoner of war in Burma.
He attended Hammond's grammar school in Swaffham, passing 11 of the newly introduced O-level exams, then left school for work. In 1957, after working as a banker and completing national service, he was accepted at the London School of Economics to study economics and accounting based solely on his O-levels.
Career at Bristol University
In 1960, Don graduated from the LSE and trained as a chartered accountant before being appointed lecturer in accounting at Bristol University in 1963. He spent his entire working life there, becoming professor in 1986 and head of department in 1990. He retired as emeritus professor in 1997.
Artistic pursuits
Don created a body of art spanning over half a century in a variety of media. He cited Banksy and Picasso as two of his favourite artists. His work was exhibited at the Bath Society of Artists, the Royal West of England Academy, and Clifton Arts Club, of which he was an active member. Ace Arts in Somerton, Somerset, hosted a 2024 retrospective titled Believe in Me and I'll Believe in You, named after his sculpture of a gold unicorn.
Community and charity work
Community, art, and charity were essential to Don's life. He was one of the first Samaritans volunteers and an active Liberal party member from 1961, standing in council elections as a Liberal candidate. He helped set up a Bristol community garden that still operates as a designated town green and initiated a local rewilding project now protected in perpetuity.
Don married Angela Shirras in 1959; they separated and divorced some 30 years later. They met in the Conservative club in Dereham, though both were lifelong Liberal party supporters.
Don will be remembered above all for his kindness. He is survived by his three children, David, Elizabeth, and the obituary writer, and his grandchildren, Sasha and Jack.
