In memoriam

Hector Patmore, husband, father, priest, professor and friend

On Sunday 13 September 2026, Hector Patmore was doing one of his favourite activities. He went for a walk. He had gone to the Isle of Skye at the start of an academic sabbatical in a place of stunning natural beauty. By nightfall it was clear that something was wrong when Hector did not return. On Monday, a massive search was conducted and then came the terrible news that a body had been found and his family had been informed.

Words cannot express the depth of our sadness to Hector’s family, his wife Lydia and their sons. We cannot begin to imagine their grief and want them to know that they are surrounded by those who love them and are praying for them in this incredibly difficult time.

Over the past three years, Hector has been instrumental in the establishment of the Anglican Institute in Belgium for training people in various Anglican ministries. His world-leading academic contributions were exceptional, as was his priestly ministry in Leuven and elsewhere in Belgium and the Netherlands. But Hector’s greatest qualities were as an immensely loving and loveable person. His gentle laugh and easy smile, combined with his ability to listen to others made him a truly remarkable person. He will be greatly missed by so, so many.

The Central Committee of the Anglican Church in Belgium sends its condolences to Lydia and their family, both here in Belgium and beyond. We pray for all those who will be affected by his death at the Faculty of Theology at KU Leuven, in the parish of St. Martha & St. Mary’s, in the Anglican church in Europe, Jerusalem, and the UK.

Details about a funeral service will follow when appropriate.

May he rest in Christ’s peace and rise with Him in glory.