Grace Cathedral

John Poynter
(June 24, 1930 — December 28, 2021)

Dear members of the Grace Cathedral congregation,

With both personal and shared sadness, I am writing to tell you of the death of our faithful congregation member and companion in faith, John Poynter, which occurred on Tuesday, December 28, at the age of 91. His husband, Gary Jennings, was with John when he suddenly collapsed at home a week after his successful heart surgery during what appeared to have been a strong and promising recuperation.  

John participated in the Cathedral’s life of prayer and service in so many ways, most recently and notably in his ministry as a carillonneur. Many of us valued his solid and unsentimental faith joined to a sharp intellect and gregarious personality.
Gary expressed his love and gratitude for the spiritual and personal connections they have shared with the Grace Cathedral community. Gary has been assured of our prayers and ongoing accompaniment.

A Requiem at Grace Cathedral will be announced as soon as arrangements can be made.  

“Jesus said, ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. Believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you?  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, so that where I am, there you may be also.’” –– John 14:1-3

The Rev. Canon Mark E. Stanger
Interim Executive Pastor