Remembering Tim Elvidge

Last week, we shared the very sad news that our much-loved Cathedral Verger, Tim Elvidge, had died following a short illness.

Tim had been part of the life of Wakefield Cathedral for more than three decades. He first became involved as a server in 1994 and, over the following 32 years, became a familiar and much-loved presence to generations of worshippers, visitors, volunteers and colleagues.

Tim cared deeply about the Cathedral and everything that happened here. As a Verger, he took enormous pride and care in preparing the Cathedral for worship, particularly our Sunday services. His knowledge of the building, its life and its traditions was remarkable – there was very little about the Cathedral that Tim didn’t know.

But Tim was so much more than his role. He was a friend and a valued part of our Cathedral community.

We will remember his huge smile, infectious laugh, kindness and friendship. We will remember the conversations and stories, his quick wit and humour, and all those small moments that come from sharing so many years of Cathedral life together.

His loss continues to be felt deeply across the Cathedral, particularly amongst our Verger, Serving and Welcoming Teams, where Tim was such a familiar and loved presence.

Dean Philip, paid tribute to Tim:

“So many of us are grateful for Tim’s faithful, gentle presence in our Cathedral at services and events over many years. His dedication to the Cathedral as a verger, welcomer, and server was legendary – as was his cheeky smile and quick humour! We are so grateful for all he gave to our Cathedral and pray for his family in their grief.”

Tim leaves a legacy of care, compassion, faithful service and a genuine love for this Cathedral, which was such a significant part of his life.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with Tim’s family and friends, and with all those who knew and loved him.

We have lost a colleague, but more importantly, we have lost a friend.

Tim will be very much missed, but never forgotten.

May he rest in peace and rise in glory.