The Rev Dr John Deane, ABM’s Executive Director, writes:

I was greatly saddened to learn of the death of Sue Parks. Over many years ABM Staff, including myself, benefited from her friendship, wisdom, and generosity. Sue could always find you a bed and seemed to know everybody across the communion. Much of her work she did quietly, seeking no recognition for her many years of inspired and faithful service. She will be missed by many of us, and I believe it is fitting that we formally remember her through the obituary which follows:

Obituary: Sue Parks, Friend of ABM

Sue Parks, originally from Sydney, dedicated her life to education, faith, and global community. She began her career in librarianship, working across all levels, from pre-school to teaching at university, before moving into roles that shaped theological education and Christian communication worldwide.

Sue served on the steering committee of Theological Education for the Anglican Communion (TEAC) and worked with the Church Mission Society (CMS). Her leadership extended to directing SPCK Worldwide (Society for the Promotion of Christian Knowledge) and Feed the Minds, an organization supporting theological resources, literacy, and HIV/AIDS education.

Her organizational skills and deep understanding of the Anglican Communion were pivotal in planning the 2008 Lambeth Conference. Working closely with Archbishop Rowan Williams and the design group chaired by Archbishop Sir Ellison Pogo, Sue transformed vision into reality, managing the complex logistics of an event that brought together bishops and their spouses from around the world.

After retiring to Exeter, Sue continued her commitment to global relationships through diocesan links with Cyprus and the Gulf, and Thika in Kenya. Even after receiving a terminal diagnosis, she remained active, traveling, staying connected with loved ones, and living fully until the end. She spent her final ten days in hospice care before passing away on Friday, 28 November 2025.

Sue will be remembered for her warmth, her ability to put people at ease, and her gift for fostering cross-cultural understanding. She combined enthusiasm with efficiency, cutting through indecision with grace and humour. A loyal friend and a spirited companion, Sue’s mischievous sense of humour and healthy disregard for pomposity endeared her to all who knew her.