Peter Eric Wilmshurst: Born in Sydenham, South London on 25 July 1930. Peter’s parents were devout Anglicans, but after their Parish Church was bombed during the war, the family worshipped at the local Methodist Church. Eventually the rest of the family returned to the Anglican fold, but Peter remained a Methodist! Boys’ Brigade was an important influence on Peter, and later he served as chaplain in a number of companies. He originally began training as a surveyor, but long conversations with his minister led to him becoming a Local Preacher, and then to candidating for the ministry. After National Service, he entered Handsworth College, and whilst training there he met Barbara, who was to become his wife, friend and beloved companion. He served in the following circuits: Llandrinddod Wells and Builth Wells, Netherton and Cradeley Heath, Blackheath, Middlesbrough, Asbury, Brampton, Malvern and Ledbury, and Stoke on Trent South. As with all ministries, life was not always smooth. There were many times when things went well, and Peter felt that he was in the right place at the right time, but there were also times of difficulty and hardship. Through all his years of service, however, Peter’s faith and his commitment to Christ remained strong. He was patient, kind and encouraging of others. He was a thoughtful listener, and someone that people felt they could turn to. Always a keen reader, Peter managed to combine ministry and study for a number of years, resulting in him receiving his BA from the Open University. Peter loved gardening, and drew strength from long solitary walks. In retirement, Peter and Barbara moved to Lichfield, where Peter greatly enjoyed volunteering as a Cathedral guide. They worshipped at Alrewas Methodist Church, and for a year Peter served there as the minister, where his many gifts were greatly appreciated.
Family life was always precious, and he was a wonderfully supportive father to Mark and Gareth, and a beloved grandfather and great grandfather. Towards the end of his life, Peter’s health deteriorated, and he was cared for at the Methodist Home in Rugeley.
He died on 22 February 2017 in the eighty seventh year of his age and the fifty ninth year of his ministry.