Death of Emeritus Rector Greig Barr

The Rector and Fellows of Exeter College regret to announce the death, on Wednesday 23rd April, of Emeritus Rector W Greig Barr. Rector Barr had a long and distinguished career in both the College and the University. Appointed an Official Fellow and Lecturer in Modern History in 1945, he held that post until his election as Rector in 1972.

During his time at Exeter, Rector Barr served as Sub-Rector (1947-54), Finance and Estates Bursar (1954-55), and Senior Tutor (1960-66). He also held prominent positions outside the College, including Junior Proctor (1951-52), Rhodes Trustee (1975-87), and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (1982-82).

All of this was after having had a spectacular war record during which he rose to Lieutenant Colonel in the Royal Devon Yeomanry. From 1974 until his death, Rector Barr was a Deputy Lord Lieutenant of the County of Oxfordshire.

The sympathy of the College goes to Rector Barr’s widow, Valerie, and to all his children, grandchildren and family.

The funeral was on Wednesday 7th May in the College chapel, followed by tea in Hall.