08/01/2026
The community of Ushaw mourns the passing of Canon Bob Spence, a deeply loved priest, colleague, and friend, who has returned peacefully to the Lord after a lifetime of faithful service.
Canon Bob’s long association with Ushaw was marked by a profound affection for its life, its people, and its mission. He held a genuine love for the place and remained a steady and encouraging presence to all who served, studied, or visited here. For nearly ten years, Canon Bob served as our Chaplain, and he will be greatly missed.
Above all, Canon Bob was a servant of Christ whose life bore witness to hope, reconciliation, and quiet strength. Though we mourn his loss, his legacy endures in the lives he shaped, the faith he nurtured, and the love he shared so generously.
We commend Canon Bob to the mercy of God, whom he served so faithfully.
May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
Picture courtesy of St Cuthbert's Church, Durham .
