June 7, 1929 – March 27, 2020
Peacefully at his home in Hudson. Born in Barbados, David was the eldest of 11 children born to the Rev. Clement Christopher Conliffe and Frances Marjorie Alleyne. Predeceased in 2016 by his beloved wife, Muriel (David). Dear father to Allison, Philip (Mary) and Emily and proud grandfather of Gregory. Survived by siblings Mary (Bill Walker), Therese (Don Fulford), Eve Corrin (Kerry Johnston), Lucie (Paul Lemaitre), and Timothy. Predeceased by siblings Gloria (Hanschell), Ingrid (Barnett), Mark (Ena), Jeanette, and Christopher (Rosemary). Beloved uncle and cousin to many.
David came to Canada at the age of 20, completed degrees at Bishop’s University and Montreal Diocesan Theological College, and was ordained an Anglican priest in 1956. He spent his entire ministry in the Diocese of Montreal, serving parishes in Pointe Claire, Kirkland, Greenfield Park and Hudson. Upon his retirement from full-time ministry in 1997, he served as honourary assistant at St. George’s, Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue.
A faithful servant of God, he ministered to his parishioners with gentleness, wisdom and compassion. His devotion to his ministry was a model to many clergy whom he mentored.
He delighted in the beauty of God’s creation, finding enjoyment in bird watching, gardening, and spotting wildlife near his home. He was attuned to environmental protection issues long before they found wide support.
His greatest joy was found in gatherings of his large extended family throughout his life, especially at his maternal grandparents’ residence, Bush Hall in Barbados, and the long-standing August long weekend event in Deep River, ON.
A private graveside burial will be held. A public memorial service is anticipated once gatherings of larger groups are permitted.
Donations in his memory can be made to the Nature Conservancy of Canada.
2 Comments
One of the finest priests I have ever known – and I have known many! One of the sweetest of men; The friendship between David & Muriel and my family stretches back more than five decades. David’s baptism of my youngest brother, Christopher, was David’s first as a deacon. I sang in the choir at David’s ordination; and at his and Muriel’s wedding. However to David I was also ‘The Crucifer’ , as he reminded me decades later, at the public celebration of his and Muriel’s wedding anniversary at St. Mary’s, Como. Life Eternal, precious friend. Life Eternal, you blessed being…
Dear Lucie. We were saddened to hear of your brother’s passing; a wonderful man. Is there any way we can get in touch with you after so many years?
Your loving Class of ’71 RVH sister nurse,
Vivian (Chandler) Bruce
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