Hugh Wyllie
Hugh Wyllie | |
|---|---|
| Born | 11 October 1934 Scotland |
| Died | 31 October 2023 (aged 89) |
| Occupation | Presbyterian clergyman |
| Known for | Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland (1992–1993) |
Hugh Rutherford Wyllie (11 October 1934 – 31 October 2023) was a Scottish Presbyterian clergyman who held the position of Moderator of the General Assembly between 1992 and 1993.
Early life and education
The son of Hugh McPhee Wyllie and Elizabeth Buchanan, Hugh received his education at Shawlands Academy followed by Hutchesons' Grammar School, both located in Glasgow. Prior to pursuing ministry, he was employed at the Union Bank of Scotland from 1951 until 1953, during which time he achieved Membership of the Chartered Institute of Bankers in Scotland (MCIBS).
Between 1953 and 1955, Wyllie fulfilled his national service duties in the Royal Air Force, specializing as an air radar mechanic. He was released from service two days earlier than scheduled due to accumulated hours; notably, a plane on which he had worked crashed on what would have been his final day, but he was unharmed.
Ordained ministry
Wyllie pursued theological training at Trinity College, Glasgow and completed his studies in theology at the University of Glasgow, where he obtained an undergraduate Master of Arts (MA Hons) degree. He was ordained as a Church of Scotland Minister in December 1962. His ministerial appointments included Dunbeth Church in Coatbridge (1965–1972), Cathcart South Church in Glasgow (1972–1981), and finally the Old Parish Church in Hamilton from 1981 until 2000. During his time at Hamilton Old, one of his probationers was future moderator for 2024, Shaw Paterson.
Throughout his career, Wyllie assumed significant leadership positions such as Moderator of the Presbytery of Hamilton (1989–90), Convenor for the General Assembly’s Stewardship and Budget Committee (1978–83), Convenor of the Stewardship and Finance Board (1983–86), and member of the Assembly Council (1987–91).
In May 1992, he was chosen to serve as Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland for one year until May 1993. Upon his election, he received the title "The Right Reverend Hugh Wyllie," which changed to "The Very Reverend Hugh Wyllie" following completion of his term.
Death
Hugh Wyllie passed away on 31 October 2023 at the age of 89. He is survived by his wife Eileen, two daughters Hazel and Helen, as well as four grandchildren: David, Iain, Emma, and Alexander.