24/03/2026
A gentle reminder that the funeral service for Rev. Richard Baxter will take place tomorrow at 9:45am at St. Kenneth's Parish Church, Kennoway.
Funeral arrangements are being handled by Co-op Funeralcare, Cowdenbeath.
The funeral arrangements have been finalised for the late Rev. Richard Baxter.
Richard’s Funeral Service will take place at 9.45am on Wednesday, 25 March 2026 in St Kenneth’s Parish Church, Cupar Road, Kennoway, Fife KY8 5LR. All are welcome to attend.
A separate Service of Thanksgiving will be held at 11.00am on Saturday, 28 March 2026 at Kelvin West Parish Church, Glasgow.
Obituary:
Rev. Richard Baxter — minister, church servant, and mentor to many — was born and raised in Bangor, County Down, Northern Ireland. From an early age he displayed a deep curiosity about the past, which led him to study history at the University of Edinburgh and later at the University of Oxford.
Before entering ministry, Richard pursued a professional career in finance. He worked first as a tax inspector and later as a tax consultant, bringing diligence, integrity, and careful judgement to his work. Yet he felt called to a different form of service and returned to Edinburgh to train for ministry at New College.
Richard’s first charge was as parish minister of Kennoway, Windygates and Balgonie in Fife. For nineteen years he became a much-loved figure in the community, known for his thoughtful preaching, steady pastoral care, and commitment to the life of the church and its people.
In 2016 he moved to the West Highlands to serve as minister of Fort William Duncansburgh Macintosh, linked with Kilmonivaig. During his six years there he continued his ministry with warmth and dedication, building strong relationships within the congregation and the wider community. He also served as chaplain to Fort William Football Club, a role he valued greatly as it allowed him to support players, staff, and supporters alike.
In 2022 Richard moved to Glasgow to serve as Transition Minister at what was then Wellington Church. During this period of change he helped guide the congregation through the Presbytery planning process and supported the union with Kelvinbridge Church that led to the formation of Kelvin West.
Beyond his parish responsibilities, Richard gave generously of his time to the wider Church of Scotland, particularly in roles connected to finance and the Church’s overseas projects. He was also deeply committed to nurturing future ministers and supervised a number of students during his various posts. In recognition of his contribution to university life, he served as an Honorary Chaplain to the University of Glasgow.
Richard will be remembered for his wisdom, faithfulness, and dedication to the Church and to those he served. His ministry touched many lives across Scotland and beyond.
He leaves behind his beloved wife, Sheryl, his children Patrick and Amy, and his much-loved little granddaughter, whom he adored and who brought him immense joy. He was a devoted husband, a proud father, and a doting grandfather, and he will be deeply missed by his family and by all who knew and loved him.
Fort William Kilmallie Church of Scotland Community
Kilmonivaig Parish Church
North West Lochaber Church of Scotland
Acharacle and Ardnamurchan Churches
Morvern, Ardgour and Strontian - Church of Scotland
South Lochaber Church of Scotland
Clèir Eilean Ì: Highlands and Hebrides Presbytery (Church of Scotland)
