We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Canon Vincent Strudwick, an esteemed Fellow of Kellogg College from 1993 and a devoted supporter of our community throughout his life. 

Vincent was one of Kellogg’s first Fellows: an influential and much-admired member of the College, he played a key role in shaping the welcoming and inclusive ethos we enjoy today. As Chamberlain, he took great care in greeting new members and helping all feel a strong sense of belonging. 

A passionate educator and theologian, Vincent brought decades of experience to Kellogg’s academic and spiritual life. He began teaching historical theology in 1959 and maintained a lifelong interest in the relationship between theology, culture and political change. His work was shaped by the thought of the Anglican divine Richard Hooker, the subject of his doctoral research, and he contributed to debates around church leadership and inclusion through publications such as Women and Episcopacy (2002) and Gays and the Future of Anglicanism (2005). 

Book cover illustration of Kelham Hall by Nina Strudwick

Among his final scholarly accomplishments was the completion of his latest book, Eliot’s Transitions, which was published just before Christmas last year. The work explores a little-known chapter in T. S. Eliot’s spiritual journey – his time spent at Kelham Hall in the 1930s, home of the Society of the Sacred Mission. It focuses particularly on Eliot’s friendship with Br George Every SSM, and the correspondence between them that led to a deep intellectual and spiritual relationship.

Vincent made a lasting contribution to Kellogg College and its community. He was elected a Kellogg Fellow in 1993, became an Emeritus Fellow in 2000, and was appointed an Honorary Fellow in 2007. He also served as the College’s Chamberlain from 1997 to 2008, supporting its ceremonial and community life during a period of significant growth. In 2011, the Graduate Theological Foundation established a sponsored lecture series – the Vincent Strudwick Lecture, held annually at Kellogg College in honour of his work, bringing eminent theologians, scholars and public figures to speak about religion in public life. 

As one of the College’s early Fellows, Vincent was deeply committed to shaping a community with an international outlook and a focus on lifelong learning. He helped foster a strong sense of family and belonging and laid the foundations for the values that have enabled the College to grow and thrive. The Vincent Strudwick Society, founded in 2022, celebrates and thanks those who have generously chosen to leave a legacy to Kellogg in their will. The Legacy Society is named in honour of Vincent, recognising his lasting contribution to the College and his enduring support. 

Recognising Vincent’s impact, Professor Jonathan Michie, President of Kellogg College, said:  

Vincent Strudwick not only encapsulated what Kellogg College is all about, he also played an immeasurable role in making it so. Vincent was deeply committed to the principle of lifelong learning. He was also passionate about ensuring  that all who came into contact with the College should feel welcome and should enjoy a real sense of belonging. That was what he achieved so admirably as Chamberlain, and in everything else he did, including founding the Vincent Strudwick Society to ensure that the College’s ethos, culture and values would continue to be delivered in perpetuity.

In honour of our great friend, Vincent, and in respect for his personality and his passions, we aim to create a special space in our College gardens, dedicated to his memory and for the benefit of all our community. This will be known as The Vincent Strudwick Contemplative Garden.