Canon Richard W. Greene (1848 - 1934) Inducted 1983

An eloquent preacher, a devoted follower of the Christian faith and a man of many talents, Canon Richard W. Greene was a much loved rector of St. James' Anglican Church in Orillia for twenty-three years. He graduated from Trinity College, University of Toronto, and in 1872 was ordained in St. James' Cathedral, Toronto, to which church he was called as second curate, remaining there for thirteen years.

In 1888, Canon Greene arrived in Orillia to be the rector of St. James', becoming a friend and advisor to many in the town. During his years here, the present church and the fine parish hall were built.

Canon Greene was active in the life of the community. A painter, he was the centre of the artistic life of the town, encouraging young artists, including Franklin Carmichael, in their work. His talent for wood carving is still evident in the Church today when one admires the eagle lectern carved by him.

He had a good ear for music and an eye for design. He was one of the judges who chose the Vernon March design for the Champlain monument.

He excelled as a carpenter and boat builder. Not only could he build boats, but he could sail them with great skill.

As president of the Orillia Branch of the Church of England Temperance Society he was one of those responsible for bringing Orillia into the Local Option fold, with a vote in favour of temperance.

He was elected President of the Ontario Sunday School Association when it held its annual convention in Orillia in 1908. Canon Greene died in 1934 and was buried in the churchyard of St. George's Church in Islington.