The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
The funeral service for the Rev Peter Garland took place at one of his two churches, St John The Baptist in Hawthorn Bank, Spalding.
Mr Garland was 62 and died on May 28 following a fall at home.
Around 450 people attended the service last Thursday, about 70 of whom were accommodated in the playground of the church’s linked primary school, with the service relayed.
Members of Mr Garland’s family present included his widow Frances and their sons Nick, Alex and Matthew.
Members of the clergy included the Bishop of Lincoln, the Right Rev Christopher Lowson, St John’s associate minister Capt Paul Whiteley and Anglican Rural Dean, the Rev Philip Brent.
The school where Mr Garland was chairman of governors for 16 years closed for the afternoon, and around 40 members of staff attended the service.
In his address on behalf of the school, headteacher Paul Reid said: “For Peter, his commitment to St John’s Primary School wasn’t just something that was part of the incumbent’s job description.
“Peter’s commitment and dedication to St John’s and to the many other schools that he was a part of, went far beyond what could be expected of the vicar.”
He added: “Peter’s role at St John’s was diverse and took many forms – he was a leader, an advisor, a supporter, a critic – and a friend.
“Peter helped to build a community where the school and church are one – with youngsters who very much see St John’s church as their church.”
Speaking afterwards, Mr Reid said: “It was a service that highlighted to people his commitment to service – whether that was to education or the parish or as [Johnson Community] hospital chaplain.”
Choir member Elizabeth Roberts wrote on The Voice’s Facebook page: “As a member of the choir at St John’s and therefore at the service, I have to say it was a very moving service and the amount of people in attendance proves how well thought of he was.
“He will be greatly missed.”
Mr Garland was also vicar of Deeping St Nicholas and chairman of governors at the primary school.
