The Revd Canon William John Peter Boyd, known as Peter has died.

Peter was a significant figure in the life of the diocese from the last generation, who ministered in various churches in Cornwall, including St Breward, St Ewe, St Kew and Falmouth. He was also a Rural Dean for Carnmarth South, before retiring in 1993 when he was given PTO in this diocese. Peter was also a former Canon Chancellor and teacher of theology in the diocese. He will be known and loved by many, and was a truly gentle soul.

The Revd Canon Alan Bashforth, Canon Chancellor at Truro Cathedral, said: “Like a few of the older hands of diocesan life I had the privilege of having Peter Boyd as my first teacher of theology. Teaching was just one of his gifts and he coupled it with both great generosity and wisdom. He also had the most marvellous self-deprecating sense of humour that enabled him to see the absurd in the Church, in the world and perhaps most importantly in himself – and this was accompanied by one of the most impressive and infectious laughs I have ever shared a room with. Beneath all of that was a deep sense of holiness and humility and he always managed to give the impression that he was a surprised redeemed sinner ever grateful for God’s extraordinary blessing in his life.

“When I think of him and remember him it is that sense of the rare quality of holiness that I treasure the most – he will be missed but it was time for him to journey home – may he rest in peace and rise in glory.”