The death occurred on Sunday at his home, Doonbank Park, Alloway, of Mr. John Mearns Allan, who was headmaster of Auchinleck Public School from 1933 until his retirement from the teaching profession in 1947. Previously he was headmaster of Skelmorlie Public School for 15 years.

A Kincardinshire man, Mr. Allan was educated at Mackie Academy, Stonehaven, where he was dux of his year. He graduated M.A. at Aberdeen University in 1904 and spent all his teaching career in Ayrshire, his first appointment being at Ardrossan Academy, where he also because Commanding Officer of the Academy Cadet Corps, with the rank of lieutenant. Later as an officer in the Territorial Army he commanded the 2nd Lowland Royal Field Artillery Ammunition Column. During the First World War he served mainly in the Middle East first as a captain and later he commanded the 1st Ayrshire (Irvine) Battery. Towards the end of hostilities he was promoted acting Lieutenant Colonel.

Soon after his return to civilian life Mr. Allan was appointed headmaster of Skelmorlie Public School, which post he held for 15 years. During that time he took an active part in the affairs of the community as a parish councilor, elder and session clerk of Skelmorlie South Parish Church.

During the Second World War he served as chief warden in the Civil Defence at Auchinleck.

Mr. Allan had many interests and hobbies. He was an enthusiastic beekeeper, angler and gardener and a member of Ayr Wattfield Bowling Club. He also took a great interest in chess and was a member and past president of the Ayr Chess Club.

He is survived by his wife and an only son.