Beloved pastor remembered for scholarship and understanding

IPSWICH: Fond memories continue to be shared of an inspirational church leader described by parishioners as a “great teacher and listener”.

Affectionate tributes to William Greenaway were last week paid by relatives of the 78-year-old, who died from a heart attack at home in Nacton Road, Ipswich, on September 10.

The Shiloh Pentecostal Church pastor was among the first wave of migrants to move from the tiny island of Montserrat to the UK, where he started a nationwide church from his family home during the 1960s.

Members of his congregation, which grew to fill churches across the country in London, Wales, Birmingham, Slough and Leicester, have also praised Mr Greenaway’s work and his engaging character.

Moving to Ipswich with wife Jean in 1960, he settled with his young family in Chevallier Street and took a job working first at Ransomes, Sims and Jefferies and then Crane’s foundry.

As Pastor Greenaway, he also took on the responsibilities of treasurer, Sunday school teacher and even church bus driver.

Kirsten Senior, of Heather Avenue, contacted The Evening Star to share her memories of the devoted church leader.

She said: “I remember when I first met Mr Greenaway I was about seven years old.

“He came along in a big blue bus to collect me and some other children for Sunday school.

“After the first time I went, I just wanted to go every Sunday. Mr Greenaway would be there playing the piano with his big smile.

“He was a great teacher to a lot of people in the church and a great listener.”

The Shiloh Pentecostal Church moved to a more established home in Silent Street during the mid-1960s and in recent years relocated to Vernon Street, where Mr Greenaway continued to give services until his retirement.

n Did you know William Greenaway? Write to Your Letters, The Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or alternatively you can send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@evening star.co.uk