David Oldham: The Quiet Grace Behind Reverend Richard Coles
While David Oldham might not hold the same recognition as his partner, Reverend Richard Coles, his life is just as powerful and rich. A priest, a partner, and an exceptionally religious man, David Oldham’s narrative is etched with love, personal struggles, and a resilient spirit. His life story is fascinating and inspirational.
Early Life and Calling to Priesthood
Oldham joined the Church of England as a clergyman. He focused on helping people find peace and meaning within themselves. He practised his religion profoundly and was regarded highly for his kindness, warmth, and dedication towards the people in his parish.
Although David never actively pursued the limelight, he enjoyed a strong intellectual and spiritual presence, impacting numerous individuals through his speeches and deeds. His colleagues appreciated his quiet, soft-spoken humour and calm composure, which helped him establish a reputation as a considerate and reliable priest.
A Love Story Rooted in Faith
In the early 2000s, Richard Coles met David. The former had an immediate connection with the latter because both were openly gay priests. They also shared an understanding of the struggle to juggle identity and work-life in the Church. What ensued was a mutual respect-love story built through extensive conversations and shared principles.
David and Richard entered into a civil partnership in 2010, marking them as one of the most notable same-sex members of the clergy in the Church of England. While Richard chose to remain in the public eye due to his various media appearances and musical ventures, David enjoyed the quieter parts of life that came with being grounded.
Their relationship showcased how faith and love blended in the most profound ways.
David Oldham’s Death and Its Aftermath
Oldham passed away on the 17th of December in 2019 at the age of 59. He died an untimely death, which sadly affected his partner, friends, and congregation. Richard Coles later disclosed that David fought a long battle with depression and alcoholism, which ultimately took a toll on his health.
Richard documented his grief in the memoir The Madness of Grief, which became a bestseller in 2021. The book was not only permeated with sorrow but also captured humour, absurdity, and the candid truths of grieving, which is why it resonated with thousands. It also highlighted David’s vulnerability, his astonishing self, and the spirit that transcends endurance.
Life Beyond David
In 2022, after David’s death, Richard Coles stepped down as vicar of Finedon. He shifted his focus toward writing while continuing his work in the public eye. He published fiction and non-fiction works and, in 2023, released a sequel to his clerical mystery debut, A Death in the Parish.
In 2024, Richard disclosed that he has found love for the second time. While this new relationship marks a new chapter in Richard’s life, it is clear that David Oldham’s place in Richard’s heart remains undisturbed. His candour regarding grief, healing, and moving onwards has been invaluable for many people grappling with their own losses.
Private Life and Social Presence
David Oldham didn’t have any social media accounts. He valued face-to-face interactions and appreciated village life. He divided his time among providing pastoral care, reflecting theologically, and relishing in quiet companionship with Richard and their pets.
Richard, on the other hand, is still active on Twitter (@RevRichardColes) and Instagram, sharing with his followers updates regarding books, faith, personal reflections, and life after his husband’s passing. His followers still follow his journey, including the extraordinary love he had for David.
Financial and Clerical Life
David Oldham lived within his means, sticking with his cleric principles. His earnings as a parish priest were not high, and he had no intentions of accumulating wealth. His life was focused on service, love and integrity.
Meanwhile, Richard Coles net worth is around the mark of £1-2 million, considering his career in music, the media, and writing. Whereas the former leads a financially better life than the latter. Regardless of their monetary differences, both lives were bound by the principles of mutual respect.
Conclusion
David Oldham’s story might not be present in tabloids and trending newspapers but surely is profound. It narrates a tale of a faithful and loveable man who lived a life full of struggles out of courage. A community servant who loved his partner and fought his battles privately. Thanks to Richard Coles’s continuous work in portraying David’s character, David’s spirit remains alive. He isn’t only remembered as a partner or priest but as a man with emotional depth and humanity.
