Richard’s position at St. Mary’s University was the icing on a very fine cake. Richard had a distinguished career. He had a graduated in economics and then qualified as an accountant. Whilst at university as an undergraduate, he became a Christian. His ability to merge economics and theology made him especially effective in contributing to Christian social thought. Richard was ordained in the Anglican Church and then became master of the Anglican Wycliffe Hall (Oxford University). He was able to combine the study of ethics and business with great expertise, especially drawing on insights from scripture.
Apart from his role as Master of Wycliffe, Richard was active in Anglican life. He served as assistant curate of Christ Church, Portswood; vicar of Chineham; as a member of the General Synod of the Church of England; and as a member of the Archbishops’ Council.
One of many important contributions by Richard was in the field of Quaker capitalism. This might appear niche, but it is an extraordinarily interesting and important phenomenon in the field of business ethics which has implications for businesses today. There were about 20,000 Quakers in England and Wales in the 19th century, but all of the following companies were founded by Quakers, and their management was explicitly based on Quaker principles: Cadbury; Rowntree’s; Fry’s; Huntley & Palmers; Jacobs; Lloyds; Barclays; Clarks; Friends Provident; as well as many others. These grew into some of Britain’s most important businesses. It is especially sad that Richard died just as he was due to start work on a commission from Cambridge University Press which would have produced the definitive work, in the UK, on this topic. Richard’s intellectual work went way beyond this important field. He wrote several books, papers and pamphlets, most recently contributing to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales document, “Render unto Caesar” – typically, it was a scriptural perspective on taxation.
A longer tribute can be found at: Rev. Dr. Richard Turnbull: Scholar, Teacher, Friend – Religion & Liberty Online Richard was also chairman of the Christian Institute which has done important work on life issues, especially with regard to assisted suicide in the last few years. Their tribute is at: Christian Institute Chairman Revd Dr Richard Turnbull promoted to glory – The Christian Institute
At this very sad time, we send our condolences to Richard’s wife, Caroline, and his four children. I know that they will appreciate the prayers of all who read this site. May he rest in peace.
