It is with deep sadness that the Bishops announce the death of the Reverend Richard Simpson, Canon Emeritus, who passed to glory aged 91 in the first week of the lockdown.

Richard had a long and rich ministry both here in our Diocese and beyond; having been ordained to the priesthood in 1957. He held parish ministries in Karori, Patea, Rongotea, Blenheim, Lyall Bay, Seatoun and Strathmore, South Wairarapa and at Wellington Cathedral of St Paul, as well as serving for a time in Singapore. He was a Chaplain to the RNZAF, to Huntley and Nga Tawa Schools, an Assistant City Missioner, Chaplain to Retired Clergy in the Ohariu and Wellington Archdeaconries, and National Chaplain to the Order of Saint Lazarus.

This extensive list is a marker of long service to Christ and His Church and the Bishops mourn his passing. Please hold in your prayers his family and friends, in particular
Richard’s son, also called Richard, and the difficulties of planning memorial services at this time.

Further details regarding a memorial service will be released in due course.

Well done, good and faithful servant.