The Diocese of Algoma joins with the Dioceses of Niagara and Toronto, the people of St. John’s Elora, and countless former students, parishioners, colleagues, friends, and family members in mourning the death of The Rev. John Frank Lockyer, who died peacefully at Guelph General Hospital on May 18, 2026, surrounded by family, one week before his 79th birthday.
Fr. John served in the Diocese of Algoma from 2002–2008 as Lay Incumbent and later Incumbent of St. Mary’s, Powassan; St. Peter’s, Callander; and St. Alban’s, Restoule. Ordained deacon on March 1, 2003, and priest on May 25, 2003, by Bishop Ron Ferris, he brought to parish ministry a lifelong love of learning, a teacher’s heart, and a deep pastoral sensitivity that left a lasting impression on the communities he served.
Before entering ordained ministry, John enjoyed a distinguished career as an educator spanning more than thirty years. A graduate of Trinity College at the University of Toronto with an Honours degree in English, he taught in Sudbury and later at Pickering College in Newmarket, where he inspired generations of students. Many remained in touch with him long after graduation, a testament to the profound impact he had as both teacher and mentor.
His call to ordained ministry emerged from a deep and abiding faith. Following theological studies at Thorneloe University’s School of Theology, where he earned both an ATh and BTh, Fr. John entered parish ministry with characteristic humility, intellectual curiosity, and compassion. Those who knew him often spoke of his remarkable ability to make theology, scripture, and church history come alive in conversation and preaching. He possessed what friends described as an “encyclopedic intellect,” yet he carried his knowledge lightly, always using it to invite others more deeply into faith rather than to draw attention to himself.
After his years in Algoma, Fr. John later ministered in Orangeville and eventually became Honorary Assistant at the Church of St. John the Evangelist in Elora, where he served faithfully for the past eight and a half years. In announcing his death, parish leaders at St. John’s reflected on the profound influence of his ministry, describing his “faith, devotion, and compassion” as an inspiration to many over the years.
The Rev. Paul Walker, Rector of St. John’s Elora and Archdeacon of Greater Wellington in the Diocese of Algoma, remembered Fr. John not only as a devoted honorary assistant, but as “a dear friend and helpful presence in parish ministry.” Even during his final illness, Fr. John remained spiritually present and engaged with those around him.
Diagnosed with lung cancer earlier this year, Fr. John initially responded well to treatment before complications arose in recent weeks. Throughout his illness, he remained surrounded by the love and prayers of family, friends, and parishioners.
Beyond parish ministry, Fr. John was known for his love of theatre—especially the Stratford Festival—along with baseball, lively conversation, and family gatherings filled with humour and warmth. He is survived by his sister, Lynda Guglick; his nieces, Melissa and Jennifer; and his beloved great-nieces, Brynn, Aubrey, and Isla, who brought him tremendous joy.
A Requiem Eucharist for Fr. John will be held on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Church of St. John the Evangelist, Elora. Visitation will take place on Sunday, June 7, at Graham A. Giddy Funeral Home in Fergus.
As the Church gives thanks for Fr. John’s life and ministry, we remember a priest whose vocation was rooted not in prominence or position, but in faithful presence: teaching, encouraging, praying, listening, and gently helping others grow in faith.
May he rest in peace and rise in glory.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. John’s Elora.
