Ruth and I were so sorry to hear of Des’ passing in December 2022. We will always remember him with smiles and thanksgiving.

We first encountered Des during his ministry of Intentional Interim at Jervis Bay Baptist Church. His ministry there was incredible. So generous, loving, wide and deep. His humour laced everything he did and said and enabled him to draw close to people pastorally while not shying away from the heavier and harder edged issues. He showed me the intensity, insight, courage, hard work and open hearted vulnerability needed for intentional interim ministry. Des embdied all these things so genuinely and sincerely. He was a wonderful example for me personally in the months before I entered a season as an intenetional interim and Archdeacon in the Anglican church. More than anyone in  my life Des showed me how to do the work of a church doctor.

We were only passing through Jervis Bay Baptist Church and yet Des showed up for us, pastorally, in every way, including a visit to Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital when Ruth was preparing to give birth to our second baby, Ben. Des was there for Ben’s naming and blessing, but not in any professional capacity. We welcomed him as a guest and again his presence was so generous and such a blessing to us at that time. In short I have never been pastored better!!

Des was so much bigger than any position, situation or season. The way he carried his own journey with him in his jokes, story-telling, and teaching that he allowed us to draw on so many historic sources and experiences. His capacity was so great that it was difficult for a denomination in an age of decline and retrenchment to find positions for him. But this didn’t stop Des. His gracious ministry never stopped bursting its banks and blessing all those with whom he came into contact.

I will always remember Des for his warmth, humour and humanity. We are thankful for his 75 years. Our love and thoughts are with Des’s family as they mourn his passing. We will look forward to seeing him again “on the other side.”

Thank you Des. Vale!

Paul

pp Paul, Ruth, Evie, Ben and Caleb Wallis