John Bodie, the senior partner of DE&J Levy (now Levy Real Estate) from 1972 to 1998, sadly passed away peacefully on Saturday 30th September at the age of 93.

John joined the firm in 1948 and played a very significant role in the firm’s growth in the 1950’s, 60’s and 70’s to become Central London’s premier office leasing firm. 

John’s contacts in the property world were second to none and he forged relationships with many of the industry leaders. Harry Hyams of Oldham Estates was a lifelong friend and together they undertook some of London’s most prestigious developments. Lord Samuel of Land Securities was a significant client, a relationship which continued when his friend Ian Henderson was chief executive. Martin Landau of Development Securities and John Burns of Derwent London were also clients, and in the hotel sector John advised the Savoy Group as well as the Ritz when owned by Trafalgar House. 

Apart from his transactional skills, John was a respected Expert Witness in the early days of rent review arbitrations, being involved in a number of cases which established legal case law.

He had a love of sport and was a skillful squash player, as well as cricketer, footballer and real tennis player. He supported Aston Villa in good times and bad. John was actively involved in charity work being a vice chairman of the Development Trust of the National Museums Liverpool, and a Trustee of the St James’s Conservation Trust. He was educated at Bradfield College and was a governor for many years and a contributor to the Bradfield Foundation. In 2002 he received an OBE for his charitable work.

A passionate gardener, he built up one of the UK’s foremost orchid collections and was a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Gardeners.

John’s contribution to Levy Real Estate was immense and he left a legacy which continues to this day. He will be much missed by everyone who knew him.

All our thoughts are with his wife, Judy, and his children, Ben and Grace.

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