Dr Oliver Beckerlegge, a retired Methodist minister, published an anthology of poetical epitaphs from York graveyards and was said to own York's oldest Bible.

Born in Sheffield, he studied at the university to gain a degree and PhD.

During his 30s, he taught English in Dusseldorf, Germany and witnessed Kristallnacht at first hand. When he returned to England, he taught in Derby, before training for the Methodist ministry.

Dr Beckerlegge served the church in Northamptonshire, Glasgow, Alston, Settle, Cornwall, Stoke, Cheshunt and Brigg, retiring to York in 1981.

While living in York, he was a member of York Philatelic Society, York Bibliographical Society, Feed the Minds, York Liberal Democrats, and the Wesley Historical Society,

He was a National Trust volunteer at the Treasurer's House and a governor at Ashville College, Harrogate.

He became a well-known figure in York, hacking his way through dense graveyard undergrowth on his hands and knees to research headstone epitaphs, which inspired him in 1985, to compile Weep Not For Me - an illustrated anthology of poetical epitaphs.

This followed the success of his contribution to the current Methodist hymn book, and inspired him to write supplements Farewell, Vain World and Why Do We Mourn?

During a four-day Bible exhibition in York, he claimed the honour of owning the oldest Bible in the city.

Dr Beckerlegge and his wife, Joyce, moved to a Chesterfield nursing home in November 2002. He died on February 18 in Chesterfield Royal Hospital, and was buried in Spital Cemetery - within sight of the factory his father built and a short distance from the chapel his grandfather had served.

He leaves a widow, Joyce, daughters Ruth and Honor, son Chris and five grandchildren.

To purchase Dr Beckerlegge's books, telephone Ruth on 07786 020670 or email ruth.hays@virgin.net.

Updated: 09:05 Tuesday, April 29, 2003