THE much-loved former Rector at St Leonard’s Church in Beoley, the Revd Canon David Rogers, has died after a short illness.
Revd Rogers spent 23 years at Beoley before stepping down in 2013.
Parishioner Ralph Richardson, who was a church warden at St Leonard’s, said: “He was the most wonderful man. He was the most conscientious vicar it’s possible to imagine and the most approachable.
“Indeed, he would talk to anyone, and did. He also took the most beautiful services.”
Intending to enjoy his retirement in Worcester the Revd Rogers suddenly found himself as minister of the city’s St Martin’s Church after its vicar fell ill.
He was working four weeks up to his death when, after complaining of exhaustion, it was discovered he was suffering from a brain tumour.
Revd Paul Lawlor, vicar of St Stephen’s Church and town centre Chaplain said: For many people in Redditch David Rogers epitomised what it is to be a Church of England Vicar.
“White haired, gently spoken and a man with a pastoral heart he touched the lives of numerous families here in the town.”
The Revd Rogers served as curate in Astwood Bank with Crabbs Cross from 1975-79 and after a time as Vicar in Cradley Heath came to St Leonard’s Beoley in 1990.
He was Rural Dean of Bromsgrove (00-06) and Team Rector of Holy Trinity Parish incorporating St Stephen’s in the town centre, Webheath, St George’s and Tardebigge.
After his retirement in 2013, David continued to minister at St Martin’s in Worcester.
“David took a great many weddings, baptisms and funerals and he supported and helped many people sharing his deep and gentle faith,” said Revd Lawlor.
“He will be greatly missed.”
Bishop John Inge, Bishop of Worcester said: “I give thanks for David and for the way in which his life has touched very many people for good and for God. May he be welcomed into the loving arms of the Lord he served so faithfully. Please pray for David, his partner, in his loss.”
The funeral of Revd Rogers will take place at St. Martin’s Church, London Road, Worcester on Thursday, August 31 at 11am.
A book of condolence is available during the week in the Christian Word Book Shop in St Stephen’s and at St Leonard’s on Sundays.
