We are saddened to hear of the former Archdeacon of Suffolk, the Ven Geoffrey Arrand’s passing on 30 July 2026.
Born in 1944, Geoffrey was educated at King’s College London and was ordained in 1968. After curacies in Washington and South Ormsby he was Vicar of Great Grimsby from 1973 to 1979, Team Rector of Halesworth from 1979 to 1985, Dean of Bocking from 1985 to 1994, and Rural Dean of Hadleigh from 1986 to 1994. He led Suffolk in faith through his archdeaconry spanning 15 years from 1994 to 2009.
Geoffrey’s faithful service to the Church touched countless lives and encouraged many in their vocation. With wisdom, humility and quiet kindness, he exercised his ministry with grace, encouraging clergy and laity alike and strengthening the life of the Diocese through many years of devoted leadership. As archdeacon his pastoral heart, gentle spirit and steadfast faith earned him deep affection and lasting respect amongst clergy and congregations.
He and his wife Margaret retired to Lincoln where he continued to serve in a variety of roles.
We give thanks for all that Geoffrey shared with us in his ministry in Suffolk.
May he rest in peace and rise in glory.