Remembering Len Garry

2 Mar 2026

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Len Garry.

Len was a much-loved member of the Strawberry Field community. As a child, he and his friend John Lennon would jump over the wall into the Strawberry Field garden.

Len Garry performing at Strawberry Field
Len Garry performing at Strawberry Field in 2023.

In 2024, during a conversation with Major Allister Versfeld, former Mission Development Officer at Strawberry Field, Allister asked Len, "Was there something that attracted you to Strawberry Field, or were you just getting up to mischief?" Len smiled and said, "Well, both!"

In recent years, Len remained a familiar and cherished presence, regularly visiting our café and garden.

Pete Shotton, Eric Griffiths, Len Garry, John Lennon, Colin Hanton, Rod Davis on the back on a lorry
(L to R) Pete Shotton, Eric Griffiths, Len Garry, John Lennon, Colin Hanton, Rod Davis. 6 Jul 1957 (AB James Davis's photo)

Len played tea-chest bass for The Quarrymen including two of the group’s most historic performances: on Rosebery Street on 22nd June 1957, and at their first show at The Cavern Club. After The Quarrymen's reunion in 1997, he toured with the band until 2024, during which time we were honoured to welcome him to Strawberry Field for several performances.

Our thoughts are with Len’s family and friends at this difficult time.

May he rest in peace.