My father David Stinson spoke with great admiration of his cousin Bill. He valued how he spoke out on important issues, often against accepted long held views. He also valued how Bill could bridge conversations with folks of many faiths based on social justice and compassion.

I never met Bill but send my deepest sympathies to his family.

Dear family and friends,

I met Bill through interfaith work and later at the Friday for Future rallies at City Hall. He was supporting the efforts of future generations to secure a livable planet. His sincere passion for this lead me to invite him to the World Religion Day event in 2019, organized by the Baha'i community of Calgary, on the theme of the spiritual dimension of Climate Change. His knowledge, warmth, and enthusiasm was inspiring.

Yours truly,

Eva Torn Thomas

We extend our condolences to Carolyn and the members of the Phipps Family.

We are late in sending our sympathy because we became aware of the loss of Bill in death through The Globe and Mail newspaper. Without doubt, Bill touched many lives, and left a significant impact on our culture. We carry many fond memories, and recall our visit with Bill and Carolyn in their Calgary home, a few years ago.

“The Bobs” (Bob Rollwagen & Rev Bob Johnstone)

Dear family and friends,

My condolences on the passing of Bill. I met him in 2019 at the World Religion Day event , organized by the Baha'i community of Calgary. He was one of the six panel speakers speaking on the Spiritual dimension of Climate Change. I found his enthusiasm and hopefulness very inspiring. I am honoured to have met him and to be uplifted by his work in action.

sincerely

May Cummings

My sincerest condolences to the entire Phipps family. I met Bill in Toronto. However it was in Calgary that we reconnected. Admired his compassion, his humour. He leaves a wonderful legacy through the tens of thousands that he touched in a personal way. Thank you Bill. I feel privileged to have known you. Rest in peace my friend.

I am keeping you in my prayers Carolyn. I didn't know Bill well, but always felt his caring way as we chatted.

My condolences. Diane Allan

Greetings. My condolences to the family...I met Bill at many protests and he always had a very positive "hello". He was very down to earth...and yet...beyond...Thank you Bill!! Mary Valentich

We truly feel a deep sense of loss at Bill's passing, and sorry we could not see him in the last weeks of his life. We were introduced to the United Church at Scarboro United through friends who kept talking about this fantastic minister. Indeed Bill was an amazing person, charismatic and such a great and powerful communicator. We were welcomed with open arms as if we had always been part of the community. His sermons became for us the best part of the week. We joined in the celebration of his retirement while a bit sorry we would not be any longer on the receiving hand of his wisdom on Sunday mornings. A few years later, we met again at Hillhurst United Church and his jovial personality embraced us once again. It seemed we had found our way back to Bill, back to a friendlier and sensible world.

Bill, you will be missed immensely! You will be missed as a humanitarian in the true sense of the word, as a model in this mixed up world, as a voice for decency and love.

We present our sincerest condolences to Caroline and the entire family. Their pain is our pain. Thanks be to God.

Jack and Jocelyne Hampton

Two favourite memories: one of joining Bill when he'd be standing out on a downtown sidewalk with a sign about climate justice. Another when the Calgary Unitarians proudly named Bill the first recipient in 2007 of our William Irvine award for a community member's action in social justice - and chose Carolyn for the same award a few years later. Heartfelt condolences to Caroline and their family.

My heartfelt condolences Carolyn...

Julian

Bill was a beacon for social justice in Canada and the world at large. He practiced the works of justice in a manner that set a standard for all churches to emulate. HIs manner of being abides a light for me. I extend heartfelt condolences of Carolyn and your family.

Just this week I encountered a poem, written in the 12th Century (Judah Halevi or Emanuel of Rome), that expresses my heart better than my own words...'Tis a fearful thing, To love, What death can touch. To love, to hope, to dream, And oh, to lose. A thing for fools, this, Love, But a holy thing, To love what death can touch. For your life has lived in me; Your laugh once lifted me; Your word was a gift to me. To remember this brings painful joy. 'Tis a human thing, love, A holy thing, To love What death can touch...

Dear Carolyn and family, may it help is some small way to know that around the world, there are many standing silently with you.

Love, Betsy Young and Joe Nurmela

Very sincere condolences to the Family and friends of Bill.

I learned a great deal from Bill during the years he was at Trinity-St. Paul's in Toronto. I was a late teen/early adult and my father (one of the 'pillars' of Trinity, and someone who often didn't always see eye to eye with Bill) arranged for me to work with Bill (and Jim Houston) at Trinity. One of the main items on the agenda at that time was the church's relationship to the local community and how to renovate/renew the physical building to better be in that community. Bill had me research homelessness, acoustics, anything that might come up. He completely trusted my research- even made me give the acoustic presentation to the congregation when the renovation of the Sanctuary was discussed (and which my father firmly opposed). Needless to say, the renovation of the Sanctuary was a major success- now the home to numerous musical groups, including Tafelmusik, and a recognized acoustic treasure in Toronto.

I learned so much from Bill in any number of meetings- recognizing ways to blend strategy and compassion, fierce focus with collaborative community building. Bill will be greatly missed and I cherish the lessons I learned from him- always given with humour, a sly smile and glint of the eye, and magnificent love of life.

I have memories of Bill from when I was active in the “Me Too” projects for “women’s rights” as well as his intense involvement in civil rights and anti-nuke projects within the Church. He was fearless and outspoken with solid reasoning behind his views. And never afraid of controversy! He created headlines sometimes, and got people discussing things they maybe never had done before. Bill opened a lot of windows in United Church thinking, and we all benefitted from that fresh breeze that blew in. We need more leaders like that in these troubling times. Maybe “rest in peace” is not appropriate - I think Bill is bringing new ways of viewing “Heaven”, to create lively discussions with the Angels. Thanks, Bill! Bonnie Denhaan, Red Deer AB.Sunnybrook U.

What a profound loss for all. Bill was a great icon of what the church needs to be. Personally he was a source of encouragement and wisdom. He is missed and he seems still with us as we work for truth and reconciliation and climate justice. For now may the peace that passes all understanding be with all who grieve his loss, especially his family and many friends.

When Marilyn Perkins invited me to become the organist at Scarboro in 1998, part of the process was an interview with Bill Phipps. During the conversation, I said to him "what does 'social justice' mean?" I don't remember what he said (though I think he was surprised I had to ask)—but I remember that was the theme of virtually every sermon I heard him preach. His way of looking at the world, and his approach to the spiritual life, was a revelation to me. As well as the sermons, I remember his children's stories at the early Christmas Eve service. He in a rocking chair, the kids gathered around. He was a remarkable man. I admired his indefatigable energy towards making the world a better place, and I am fortunate to have had the opportunity of knowing him.

I was very sorry to hear of Bill's death the other day. Carolyn, I am sure you will miss him deeply. I remember him well as a colleague, boss, prophet and good friend. We will all miss him. Rest in peace Bill.

Rev. Sharon Moon

I have fond memories of Bill walking into Parkdale United Church hall in Ottawa in the middle of the "Who is Jesus?" kerfuffle. I said to him that I thought it was the best thing that ever happened to the church and he agreed. Whenever was there this much theological reflection going on. I also remember him at a dinner in my backyard with other friends. He had his camera out and found infinite things of interest to take photos of. He was like a kid who had found a candy store.

We've lost an amazing, courageous, wise, leader. Blessings and peace to the family.

I was so sorry to hear of Bill’s death. He went right through my mind on the day he died. Strange! He recommended me to follow him at Trinity-St. Paul’s back in 1984, and I quickly saw the great affection with which he was held, and the enduring presence of his dream for the place. He was a bright man of integrity and power. I’m glad I knew him, and appreciated his leadership. I wish you comfort in your loss

Carolyn, I have fond memories of my time with you and Bill at Scarboro, especially attending the morning Bible Study group. It was a pleasure to be able to discuss Christianity with others who viewed it through a Social Gospel lens.

Dear Carolyn and family,

Such a juxtaposition of feelings and emotions when I think of Bill and his passing. He was one of the few to call me Bobby, and there might be none other than me who affectionately called him Wild Bill. We shared many hugs and laughs and tears and joys together.

One such event that stands out in my mind was the fiery oration that rocked the 700 folks at our breakfast fundraiser for RESULTS Canada right out of their seats for a standing ovation.

A man among men, a true and passionate advocate for all things good and right and just.

“Bobby, what we have is a crisis, a bankruptcy of moral and cultural values. That is where we should be focusing our time and energy.”

Great joy to have communed for many years with this exemplary human, great sadness to know it will no longer take place on this plane.

Big hugs, Dr Bob

Hi Sarah and Jeremy Kate and Foster

So sad you have lost your Dad. Your Dad and I both felt that the birth of our two children was one of the best things that happened in our life. Thinking of you and sending love.

Condolences to Carolyn and her family.

Mom

Caroline, There are no words L can say to help you through this huge loss. Bill and I bonded the first time we met at Right Relations. The two of you were a great insperation for me and many others. Bill has left a huge legacy, for everyone to remember.. Love you Caroline, you will be in my thoughts and prayers, God is with you, and bill is in your heart.

Valerie Mintenko

Dear Carolyn and family

My husband Rev. Pete Hoyle and I hosted you and Bill for a BBQ at our home in Burlington. We were sitting outside enjoying each others company, having drinks, and waiting on dinner. I went in to get an appetizer and when I came back out my cat Boots came with me. Carolyn & Bill both burst into laughter and Carolyn said (out loud) “Now that is the fattest cat I’ve ever seen” to which she was suitably stared down by Boots who then turned his head in pure distaste and returned to the sanctuary of our house! We had a very enjoyable time with you and discussed how Bill had gotten Jesus in the news headlines!!

Sadly I have no prophetic words to add to this tribute because my soulmate Pete passed away Sept.27/21 and he would have had something amazing to say about Bill.

I can honestly say I share in your grief and that of your family in the loss of your soulmate. Love and peace.

Dear Carolyn and family,

I had the great honour of working with Bill on both the Moderator's Consultation on Faith and the Economy and in the early days of Faith and the Common Good. Bill was such a lovely person to work with, full of commitment, wisdom, and compassion. His legacy will long be remembered and honoured by all who knew him. I express my sincere condolences to all of you - I hold you in my heart and prayers.

Mark Hathaway

Dearest Carolyn, I will remember how amazing he spoke with seeming ease, with intelligence and connecting world events to Christian life. His welcoming wide arms made me feel so comfortable and at home in church. He was so good humoured and always made time to listen to all kinds of people, no matter their circumstances. He will be very missed.

The RECCORD expresses its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family for the passing on to the great beyond of our dear friend and partner in the ministry.

May the Great Spirit accompany you on your journey as well as in our struggle for social justice in the Philippines. Sail on our friend!

Carolyn, Don and I are sending love and hugs to you as we learn of Bill's death. It was our good fortune to have our lives touched by this fine man. Don and Joan Hunter

Dear Carolyn, you were a strong & resilient care giver to the end. There was never a time when your name was not linked in my mind with Bill’s so this next part of your life’s journey is going to be hard. If you listen, you will hear Bill reminding you that he has just shifted gears and is not really “gone”. Much love to you xo

Rev. Bill Phipps will forever be remembered as a warm and inspiring man who loved his family and the Earth. May we all follow his example of service to what we hold dear.

Carolyn, I offer my condolences to you and the family you and Bill created. As I knew him, Bill was a cultural leader and a warrior for respect. As a cultural leader he changed the conversations we were so piously having. With a smile, he insisted on gutty openness to and compassion for persons of all traditions and conditions, including the Earth. He insisted and showed us how to learn to see and stand with and for those we were blind to. As a warrior for respect insisted that a deep respect for persons, communities and the Earth must precede love. I am so thankful he was in my life as a friend and role model.

Carolyn and family - I am so saddened to hear of your loss of Bill. He was a gift to all who knew him. There is no doubt that Bill's life, his passions for people, for justice, and for the planet, changed the world for better. Bill was a delight to be around. I especially enjoyed his humour and the twinkle in his eyes. He asked good questions - the kind that make you think and ponder. He had a gift for summarizing and highlighting the things that really matter. I can think of numerous occasions where Bill's words make a strong impact on the community. People wanted copies of the words so that they could reflect and ponder more deeply. I would add that it was the passion and love that accompanied those words that made them deeply powerful in peoples' hearts. I appreciate the wisdom he shared so freely and with humility. He was, and will always be, a role-model for all of us of love in action. Bill will be dearly missed. My heart holds you and your family.

Deep flowing gratitude for Bill and the choices he made in living his life so fully and generously, for his courageous leadership and lovingness! Thanks for Carolyn and all those who supported and were co-conspirators with Bill!

Warmest love,

Madelyn MacKay

My deep condolences, Carolyn and family; I am so very sorry to get this sad news. I counted Bill as a friend but most of all quite the inspiring church leader. He will be missed.

Carolyn

Please know that all of us who knew and loved Bill are holding you and the family in our hearts and in our prayers.

On Good Friday, 1977, while 400 of his friends were trudging through snow on our annual Walk for Justice Stations of the Cross, Billy had made a special flight into town to sit in a stadium to watch the Blue Jays season opener.

Carolyn, I cannot tell you how saddened I am - for you, for your family and for our church. It was a privilege for me to work with Bill in a variety of ways over the years, and to call him friend. Bill's progressive leadership was such a gift to us, and he will be terribly missed.

Pam Thomas

I am in ministry because of Bill Phipps. His influence on a generation of believers is inestimable. Not only did he change people’s minds, he changed their hearts. I will never forget him. My deepest condolences to his family.

Patti Rodgers

Carolyn my heart aches for all of you - and all of us. Bill was such an exemplary human being, a profile in faith, courage and goodness. Please know you are held in the embrace of a grateful family of faith. My heartfelt condolences.

It was never my pleasure to meet Bill in person, but I was touched in so many ways. Intellectual, outrageous, welcomer, defender of marginalized people, promoter of climate justice. He has left in body, but we can hope he spawned more bodies like him. Rest In Peace Good Servant.

Barrie Bolton

Carolyn and family, please accept my sincerest condolences on the passing of your dear Bill! Oh my, he will be so very missed by all who knew and loved him! He will certainly be wrapped in God’s loving arms! His service to the community and church, to those working on environmental and reconciliation issues, to social justice causes……. There were simply no limits to the blessings Bill bestowed on so many. A life well-lived and a soul well-loved! It has been a real pleasure getting to know him a little, while worshipping at Hillhurst. Carolyn, if there is anything I can do to support you at this time, I hope you will not hesitate to ask. My love and sympathy goes out to your

family. God bless!

Marilee Jasper