A Somerset parish is in mourning following the unexpected death of its priest.
The Rev Ana Lawrence, the rector of Street with Walton and Compton Dundon, died on August 27 following a short illness.
She leaves her husband, Kevin, and two grown-up children, Sarah and Ben.
The Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Rt Rev Michael Beasley, said: “We are all truly devastated.
“Ana was a wonderful priest and a much-loved friend.
“Ana lived out her faith generously, courageously and faithfully.
“She had a great gift for making people feel listened to, and brought warmth and kindness into so many lives.
“We are blessed to have known her and we grieve her passing.
“We pray for her family, friends, and all those who knew and cared for her.
“We will miss Ana greatly.”
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Ana, who also served as rural dean, moved to Somerset during the Covid pandemic in 2020.
Despite the restrictions at the time, she built strong relationships, offering encouragement, pastoral care and commitment to parishioners.
Soon after arriving in the county, she said in an interview: “Most of all I love working among the people whom I serve.
“It is a real privilege and joy to serve God and work with his people in these lovely places.”
She said she enjoyed playing the violin, working out in the gym, walking in the countryside, baking and meeting up with friends and family.
Ana, who was originally from Watford and had lived in Buckinghamshire, Oxford, Cambridge and Shropshire, undertook her theological training in Nottingham and served her curacy near Wolverhampton.
Before her ordination, she had taught the violin and the viola in primary and secondary schools.
A Bath and Wells spokesperson said: “Ana's death will be deeply felt across our diocese, among the communities she served, her clergy colleagues, and by the many people she cared for throughout her ministry.
“Ana will be remembered for her faith, warmth, and dedication to serving others.
“She was deeply committed to sharing God's love and helping communities flourish, and her ministry has left a lasting mark on the churches and people she served.”
The funeral is taking place at the Mission Church, Street, on at 1pm Wednesday, September 16, when people are asked to “wear colours” in line with Ana’s wishes.
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