Funeral of Rev W Barlow-Lietch

12 YEARS RECTOR AT HARLASTON

Funeral of the Rev. W. Barlow-Lietch.

The funeral service of the Rev. W. Barlow-Lietch, formerly rector of Harlaston for 12 years, took place at St. Matthew’s Church on Saturday. Cremation had previously taken place at Harrogate and the ashes bought from Filey, where he had lived since his retirement.

During the years he was at Harlaston , he had been instrumental in raising £495 for a new organ in memory of the fallen of the last war, and also £1,000for restoring the tower and £63 for new cassocks and surplices and a new carpet for the aisle of the church.

Ill-health forced Mr. Barlow-Lietch to retire in September 1953, after 38 years in the Lichfield diocese. Together with his wife he took up residence at Filey, Yorkshire, where his married daughter was living.

The service was conducted by the present Rector (the Rev. J.R. Bennion). The ashes bought from Filey were placed at the foot of the alter steps until the interment.

To a packed church Mr. Bennion first expressed sympathy to the family, on behalf of himself and the parishioners, and said how grateful they all were that the late rector should be bought to rest in the place he loved so much and where he was loved and respected by everyone.

He spoke of the great work Mr. Barlow-Lietch had done for the church in spite of being greatly handicapped by ill-health. He had done more for the parish than any previous priest and probably more than any future one could do.

“The qualities which have endeared him to his people were his simple faith, kindness, sympathy and great understanding.” added Mr. Bennion. “He has left memories behind him which will always be treasured and an example which all may do well to follow.”

He loved Harlaston most of any parish he had served in and always called it home. Now he had come home to rest.

The service commenced with the singing of Psalm 23 and ended with “Abide with me.” Miss Welch was the organist.

Interment followed with prayers and the Cross-bearer and choir attending. Floral tributes were from the family, and sprayed of flowers from many parishioners and friends.

Principal mourners were: Mrs. W. Barlow-Lietch (widow); Mr. and Mrs. F. Angus (daughter and son-in-law); Mr. and Mrs. Weekes (daughter and son-in-law).