Fr Nigel passed away on 2 September 2026, aged 70. The following has been provided by Nigel’s friend since school, John Smith (Thirlestaine, 1974).

Nigel's early years were in Painswick. It was there his interest in Christianity started, with the family being regular church goers at St. Mary's, the church famed for its 99 trees. 

On moving to Cheltenham, Nigel started at Cheltenham Junior School, soon establishing himself as a popular boy and learning to play the violin to a very respectable level in the school orchestra. He was also a member of the choir and I remember going with him to Nice in 1968 to sing on what I believe was the first ever overseas trip organised by the Junior School – very exciting! 

At College his interest in the Christian faith blossomed and, unbeknownst to most of us, he would often meet with Rev. Samuel Salter (College Chaplain), to explore matters theological.

On leaving College, he pursued a career in the City, joining Lloyd’s brokers Willis Faber. He made an immediate impact and by 1979 was dispatched to Japan to promote the company's business. 

Despite his success, the Christian calling soon became too strong and he left Willis in 1981 to train at Salisbury and Wells Theological College. Various postings followed, first at Walworth, then as Succentor of Southwark Cathedral 1988-92, Vicar of the Ascension, Pollards Hill 1992-98, Rural Dean of Merton 1998-2001, and Vicar of Kew, St Anne 2001-21. The 20 years he spent at Kew were amongst his happiest. He absorbed himself in the local community, always providing a friendly ear and spiritual advice to his many parishioners.

He was fortunate to travel the world extensively, especially in Europe and the far East, and I know he walked the Pilgrim trail to Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain. Nigel retired to Tisbury in Wiltshire in 2021. His days were spent walking with friends and his dog Toby and developing his love of the piano. 

Sadly, in April 2026, an incurable brain tumor was diagnosed out of the blue. Nigel faced his final months with great dignity, visited by many friends. His very well attended funeral was a measure of just how many people loved him and a coach full of parishioners from St Anne's, Kew kind of said it all.

He is sadly missed, not least by his sisters Pip and Anne.