Jack Milverton
On Monday 10th August Jack died after a short illness. He was 94 years old. There will be a full obituary in October’s parish magazine, but I hope I will be permitted a few reflections of my own just before the September magazine goes to press. 
Though we knew Jack as an elderly priest, he was in fact a late ordinand (for those days) when he was ordained in 1957. He had already begun a career in education which he returned to after a curacy and brief incumbency. His most important job was as Head of Education at Weymouth College of Education and then Dean of Education when this was incorporated into the Dorset Institute of Higher Education. After his retirement he served the Church first as Team Vicar of Oakdale and then as one of our curates.
When I came to this parish he made it plain that he would serve in whatever way I felt fit. It was typical of Jack that he said he would attend the staff meetings if I wanted him to but would only offer his opinion if asked! Needless to say I kept him on as a full member throughout my time here. He was a very wise counsellor and I know that many people have been supported and guided by him over the years, including me and my predecessor, Bishop Stephen. Curates, Readers, clergy in training and many, many members of our Church have gained from his wisdom.
Jack was a strong advocate of good theology – something he and I have in common – and he did much to advance Christian education in our parish and beyond. Jack had a very good mind and couldn’t stand any cant. He was a marvelous preacher with a wonderfully clear voice. He was, of course, greatly blessed by being married to Ruth as she was through her marriage to Jack. They were a real team. Ruth was, indeed, an enormously important part of his life and it is a great tribute to her that he was able to enjoy his latter years despite a certain level of disability. Our thoughts and prayers are very much with her at this time.
I am deeply thankful that Jack was part of our clergy team while I have been Vicar of Holy Trinity. I shall miss him greatly. May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
Richard Franklin
14 August 2009