Longest serving priest, 98, dies
A 98-year-old clergyman from Cannock - believed to be the longest serving priest in the Church of England - has died.A 98-year-old clergyman from Cannock - believed to be the longest serving priest in the Church of England - has died. The Reverend Raymond Bristow, who celebrated 70 years as a priest last September, died at Abbey Court Nursing Home in Heath Hayes. Tributes have been pouring in to an "extraordinary" family man who devoted his life to the church and to God. He was still assisting with services at St James' Church in Norton Canes until last October. He regularly celebrated the midweek Mass and also assisted at the principal Mass every Sunday, until his death on Wednesday. Read the full story in the Express & Star
A 98-year-old clergyman from Cannock - believed to be the longest serving priest in the Church of England - has died.
The Reverend Raymond Bristow, who celebrated 70 years as a priest last September, died at Abbey Court Nursing Home in Heath Hayes.
Tributes have been pouring in to an "extraordinary" family man who devoted his life to the church and to God. He was still assisting with services at St James' Church in Norton Canes until last October.
He regularly celebrated the midweek Mass and also assisted at the principal Mass every Sunday, until his death on Wednesday.Mr Bristow leaves behind his son Simon and grandchildren Emma, aged 23 and Andrew, 20. He was married to wife Barbara but she died two years ago.
Simon Bristow, aged 52 from Heath Hayes, said his father was a popular man who was devoted to the church. The arrangements for Mr Bristow's funeral have yet to be confirmed.
