Former rural dean of Burnley dies at the age of 93

A former rural dean of Burnley, who had a long and distinguished career serving the church, has died at the age of 93.
Former rural dean of Burnley, Canon Rod Wilson, has died at the age of 93Former rural dean of Burnley, Canon Rod Wilson, has died at the age of 93
Former rural dean of Burnley, Canon Rod Wilson, has died at the age of 93

Canon Rod Wilson was minister at Holy Trinity Church in Burnley for 20 years, from 1958 to 1978.

An Oxford graduate, Canon Wilson was born in Blackburn and attended Queen Elizabeth's Grammar School.

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He studied at Salisbury Theological College and after his ordination Canon Wilson became curate at Morecambe Parish Church.

From there he moved to All Saints Church in Clayton-le-Moors before coming to Burnley. He later returned to Morecambe, to St Christopher's Church in Bare, before taking over the role of vicar at St James and St Paul's Church in Accrington until his retirement in 1989.

A keen Blackburn Rovers fan, Canon Wilson also enjoyed watching the England cricket team on TV. He enjoyed reading and was a keen walker. During his retirement he would walk the 11 miles from his home in Cherry Tree to Blackburn every Saturday to do his shopping.

Canon Wilson went to live in a home for retired clergy in Lytham St Annes for a while but returned to his roots in Blackburn and died in the Magdalene House Care Home.

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Canon Wilson leaves two nieces Heather and Alison, two great nieces Hannah and Miranda, one great-great niece Winter, and sister-in-law Jean.

His funeral will be held on Friday at St Francis' Church, Blackburn at 11-15am followed by cremation at Pleasington Crematorium.

There is a request for family flowers only or donations to St Francis' Church, c/o and all inquiries to Alderson and Horan Funeral Services on 01282 427483 or 457452.

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