Tributes to ‘eccentric’ Suffolk priest Rev David Streeter who has died aged 73

The Rev David Streeter at Stradbroke

Mr Streeter, who was rector of Stradbroke, Horham, Athelington and Redlingfield when he retired three years ago, served as rural dean of Hoxne from 1991 to 2000.

Deeply compassionate but considered eccentric and sometimes awkward in manner, he was most widely known for his colourful clothing and his love of the Royal Family. For many years he wrote a hymn for each big Royal occasion.

Born in Essex, Mr Streeter was educated at Harrow School, going on to study at Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he obtained BA and MA degrees.

His first jobs as a clergyman were as curate at first Saffron Walden and then Shrub End, Colchester.

The Rev Streeter abseiling

He was rector of Rayne in the Chelmsford Diocese from 1973 till 1979 and then vicar of Higham’s Park, near Walthamstow, until 1982.

Mr Streeter became priest-in-charge at Stradbroke and nearby parishes in 1982 and rector of the same patch from 1987 until his retirement three years ago, moving from the rectory to a house in the village.

During more than 30 years in the area he dabbled in amateur drama and was a great fan of Gilbert and Sullivan musicals.

His fundraising activities led him to various stunts, including abseiling down the church tower and skate-boarding.

Since retirement he had been an enthusiastic cake-maker, helping to stock the cake stall at the village church.

He leaves a wife, Margaret and a son, Daniel.

Mrs Streeter said her husband had been a complex and very private man.

“He was a very caring priest, a very trusting and humble person and he had quirky sense of humour.”

She has been “inundated” with cards of condolence. After a private cremation, a memorial service will be held later.

Mrs Streeter said donations in her husband’s memory should be sent to St Elizabeth Hospice, Foxhall Road, Ipswich, IP3 8LX.

A spokesman for Pembroke College, Cambridge, said: “His philanthropic support was highly valued and I am sure he will be sorely missed by his contemporaries.”

John Howard, spokesman for the Diocese of St Edmundsbury and Ipswich, said Mr Streeter had served the people of Stradbroke and the surrounding area generously for 30 years.

He added: “David was a parish priest known for his eccentricities, appearing on TV falling off his skateboard, but he was also a parish priest.

“He was warmly regarded locally, having cared for his parishioners for many years.

“He continued to be active in retirement until quite recently, taking services and finding enjoyment in providing flower arrangements in local churches. There are many who will have been grateful for his ministry. Our condolences and prayers are with his wife and family.”