Norwyn MacDonald Ramm

Canon Norwyn MacDonald Ramm, who has died aged 77, was one of Oxford's most popular and colourful clergymen.

Mac Ramm, as he was universally known, was vicar of St Michael at the Northgate Church in Cornmarket Street for 27 years.

His infectious laugh and sunny personality lightened many church services and social gatherings.

He was born in Bournemouth, educated at Berkhamsted School and followed his father into the priesthood.

He spent ten years in Jamaica where he trained at a theological college and served as a curate at eight churches. He became curate at St Michael's in 1958, while completing his theology studies at Lincoln College, and vicar three years later.

In 1971, after the closure of St Martin's Church in High Street, St Michael's became the City Church and Canon Ramm was appointed City Rector, hosting regular civic services.

He created the role of commercial chaplain and was often seen in city centre shops and offices looking after the spiritual needs of workers.

He founded the Oxford branch of the Samaritans and was also chaplain at Oxford Prison.

He often recalled how he won the hearts of the prisoners with a gaffe at his first service in the jail.

"I said 'let us pray and remember why we are here'. There was terrific laughter because, of course, everyone knew exactly why they were there."

He arranged special services at St Michael's for many city organisations and was regularly called on to say grace at dinners and lunches.

He published a book of graces he had collected over the years. In 1985, he became one of the 36 Queen's chaplains.

Describing his style of ministry, he once said: "I believe the Church should not only be caring for a Sunday congregation but looking outward the whole time, whether people go to church or not."

He retired in 1988 due to ill health.

Paying tribute to him, the Bishop of Oxford, the Rt Rev Richard Harries, said: "Mac Ramm was one of Oxford's leading clergymen, and during his time at St Michael's, did a great deal to strengthen the city centre ministry.

"But his ministry was not confined to church people. He will be greatly missed."

Canon Ramm, who died at his home in Harwell, leaves a widow, Ruth, a daughter, Selina, sons Peter and David and three grandchildren.