Canon Richard Norburn (MBE), the Hospice’s founder

Canon Richard Norburn’s vision led to the founding of St Nicholas Hospice Care, something he referred to as ‘the high spot’ of his ministry.

Richard saw three people needing terminal illness care and thought there ought to be something better. He shared his worries with the then Rev Sally Fogden, who shared his view.

Richard, who died on November 15, 2017, was involved with the Hospice since its inception. He chaired the first planning group and the first board. He became President while remaining a Trustee in 1987 after our first President, Bishop John Waine, left Suffolk to be Bishop of Chelmsford.

Without Richard, there would be no St. Nicholas Hospice Care. He passionately supported the Hospice’s work, visited the Hospice frequently and made appearances at fundraising events.

He was a great man with an enormous heart who worked tirelessly for the Hospice. He was our greatest champion and worked with a passion and enthusiasm that was infectious.

Many tens of thousands of dying people and their families have benefited from Richard’s vision and inspirational leadership.

Here, in his own words, Richard shares the story of where it all began: