Former Captiva Chapel Pastor Dies At 96 Years Of Age

Joyce Kelly & Bruce McLeod

The Very Reverend Dr. Bruce McLeod served the Chapel from 2000-2004. His wife, Reverend Joyce Kelly, reported his passing to the present pastor, Doug Dortch, this week.  Reverend Kelly was the pastor from 2008-2010.

In a one-of-a-kind combination, the two are the only husband/wife team to have served the Chapel. Rev. McLeod was the national leader of the United Church of Canada in the 1970’s and was an outspoken advocate for human rights during his career.  He was an inspiring preacher.

His legacy was chronicled by Chapel historian, Sandy Ehlers.  Mrs. Ehlers said, “Bruce and Joyce’s combined male/female energy reflected off one another and was responsible for their effectiveness.”  They returned to the Chapel in 2017 to jointly preach at the funeral of Mrs. Ehlers’ husband, Tom.

A memorial service in suburban Toronto will begin at 1PM on February 1st and will be live-streamed on the web site of Westminster United Church, Orangeville, Canada.