05.03.2026
Tullow Parish Bids Fond Farewell to the Revd John and Vera Tanner
Tullow’s Parish Hall was transformed last Friday evening (February 27) as parishioners, friends and family gathered to say farewell to their Rector, the Revd John Tanner and his wife Vera. John retired after 18 years serving the parish and over 110 people filled the hall to wish the couple well.
A hard–working team blew up 500 balloons, erected fairy lights, put out tables, chairs, candles and lanterns so that the attendees were welcomed into a warm, attractive and inviting place creating a happy buzz fuelled by the bar and tasty finger food.
As well as parishioners, the parish was delighted to welcome John and Vera’s family and friends as well as neighbours and many from the local community.
John and Vera were presented with a Blue Book voucher, gold earrings, a bouquet for Vera, and a bank draft in a specially designed card. They were also presented with a photo book illustrating their life in the parish over the last 18 years.
Secretary to the Select Vestry of Tullow, Jane Bowes, has shared some memories of John and Vera’s time in the parish. She writes:
“John and Vera were with us for over 18 years – that’s long enough that some in the parish can barely remember Tullow before John and Vera arrived. Tullow has changed enormously over these 18 years – and John has led that change with vision, courage and a remarkable ability to climb very high ladders without fear. He made sure Tullow didn’t stand still. Services like the Remembrance Service, Carols Around the Crib, Carols by Candlelight, concerts, lectures, community events – this church truly became a church at the heart of the community.
“But John’s ministry wasn’t just spiritual – it was very practical. Digging graves for ashes, endless trips from the Rectory with keys, toilet rolls, light bulbs and whatever else was required. Unblocking drains. Monitoring alarms. Servicing the defibrillator. Clearing gutters. Scaling walls. Assembling a Christmas tree base sturdy enough to survive what we can only assume was Hurricane Katrina.
“There were marquees erected and dismantled, a cupola restored, ramp installed, heating and lighting upgraded, seating reorganised, hall refurbished, storage container introduced, Remembrance Garden redesigned – and during Covid, when the world stopped, John simply said, “Well, we’ll just have to find another way.” And he did. Live service recordings and broadcasts – and with socially distanced masked choristers and all!
“He has been fearless, forward–thinking, practical, and determined, but, most important has been John’s ministry to people.
“His open–mindedness. His non–judgemental approach. His ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. Many families in the parish could tell stories of him arriving without hesitation in moments of crisis.
“It’s often said that behind every successful man stands a strong woman. In this case, she wasn’t behind him. She was beside him. Sometimes slightly ahead. Occasionally holding the ladder.
“Vera supported John through his move from banking into full–time ministry – which is not a small lifestyle adjustment. She arrived in Tullow with two teenage boys and proceeded to manage three men in her life with extraordinary calm and good humour.
“The role of clergy spouse is not easy. It’s often unseen. It can be lonely. It asks much and thanks little. But Vera has done it with grace, warmth, humour and fierce loyalty. She has been not just supportive, but central. Truly, there is no better woman.
“Our final wish for John and Vera: thank you for walking with us, laughing with us, praying with us, and occasionally climbing very high ladders for us. May your camper van behave itself, may West Cork welcome you warmly, and may there be no brambles on your path. For everything you’ve given, and for the friendship we’ll always treasure..…. THANK YOU BOTH.”
