Canon James Francis, the first black Bermudian Canon Residentiary at the Anglican Cathedral, passed away this weekend.
Canon James Francis, 1928-2024. Photo courtesy of Christ Anglican Church, Devonshire
Canon Francis served at the Cathedral for 12 years from 1985. He then presided over Christ Anglican Church Devonshire for 20 years until his retirement in 2018.
His successor at Christ Church, Reverend Jay Tucker, says Canon Francis was his mentor and a father figure, and was instrumental to his own ordination in the Anglican church.
Almost prophetically, Canon Francis told the congregation that one day, Reverend Jay would be the priest in charge at Christ Church.
They met every week for breakfast up until just a few months ago.
Premier and Progressive Labour Party Leader, David Burt, said Canon Francis was “a true servant leader… He exemplified the values of faith, hope, and community, reminding us all of the power of service to transform lives.”
