The Venerable Ronald Woodley
We were sad to learn of the death of the Venerable Ronald Woodley, former Archdeacon of Cleveland, on Saturday, 25th February 2017.
The Bishop of Whitby outlined Mr Woodley's dedicated service in ministry in the Archdeaconry of Cleveland where he served from his ordination in 1953:
1953-58 Curate, St Martin (Whinney Banks), Middlesbrough
1958-61 Curate, Whitby
1961-66 Curate in Charge, Berwick Hills Conventional District
1966-71 Vicar, The Ascension, Berwick Hills, Middlesbrough
1971-85 Rector of Stokesley
1977-85 Rural Dean of Stokesley
1985-91 Archdeacon of Cleveland
He served also as a Canon of York Minster for the Prebendary of Grindal from 1982 and in holding the Archbishop's Permission to Officiate continued to make a significant contribution to the liturgical life of the Minster long into his retirement. One Ordinand commented recalled a conversation with him saying, “He spoke passionately about parochial ministry and encouraged me by stating that “It’s the greatest life you’ll ever live. It’s hard but on balance I have never known of a more joyful life!”
Mr Woodley was 91 and is survived by his wife, Pat, and their family. The funeral will be held at 2pm on Thursday, 9 March in the parish church of All Saints, Ingleby Arncliffe.