Over 60 musical years: How Organist Became A Symbol of Lifelong Harmony For Old Clee Church and Christ Church

Sing to the Lord a new song

In one of Cleethorpe’s most ancient buildings, a remarkable story of dedication and musical passion continues to unfold.

For over 63 years, Geoff White has dedicated himself to being a church organist in the place he has called home since childhood, playing at both Old Clee Church, Grimsby and nearby Christ Church, Cleethorpes.

He’s still delighting local people with his continued exceptional talent and commitment. Geoff is as much a fixture of the church as the organ is!

A Lifelong Connection to Cleethorpes

Having lived in Cleethorpes all his life, Geoff’s faithful journey began at the age of 8 when he started piano lessons with a local instructor. He was blessed with talented piano fingers from the very start.

It wasn’t long before he became involved with community events like the Cleethorpes Music Festival, which Geoff says fuelled his passion for music even further.

The Beginning of a legacy

Geoff’s uncle was a choir member at Old Clee Church and encouraged him to attend a service when he was 16 years old, confident he would fall in love with the music and the Lord. He was right on both counts.

During these visits, the vicar recognised Geoff’s God-given gifts and invited him to express them more fully. He would go on to play the harmonium at Christ Church. This opportunity allowed Geoff to flourish.

A Pillar of the Church Community

When the vicar of Old Clee Church retired almost 20 years ago, Geoff took on the responsibility of playing the organ at both Christ Church as well as Old Clee Church.

His filled Sundays with harmonious notes as he moved between a service for each church. They were both uplifted by his music.

He’s even branched out and added to his rich musical legacy – today, if you hear the bells ringing from Old Clee Church, it’s likely Geoff on the rope.

A Versatile Musician

His talent for the organ has been heard far and wide in a variety of different churches. Many of those times have been during milestone moments in a person’s life, be it weddings, baptisms or funerals. His versatility has been an integral to the churches.

Geoff said it was a honour to be involved with having a real and memorable impact of people’s lives:

“To be intimately involved in the memorable moments of a church family, through music, is a real blessing. I have struck a chord, or at least tapped a key, with so many who appreciate the sound in the background – it’s been me all along!”

A Decade of Leadership

Ten years ago, Geoff also took on the role of Churchwarden at both Old Clee Church and Christ Church with encouragement from those around him. On top of his musical contributions has has now also revealed his leadership ability.

Our Diocese is tremendously thankful for his commitment to following God’s call in the community which he has served nearly all of his life. It is truly inspiring.

Celebrating A Lifelong Harmony

As we celebrate his 63rd year at Old Clee Church, we honor not just Geoff’s musical talent but also everything he does to support the place and community he has cared for, for so long.

In a special event at Christchurch, the Bishop of Lincoln, the Rt Revd Stephen Conway marked his 60 plus years as church organist. It was a joyous reminder of the power of music to bring people together and create lasting bonds.

More about Old Clee Church

An ancient building

Old Clee Church is one of the Grimsby and Cleethorpe area’s most ancient building and is well worth a visit.

It can be visited at this address: Church Ln, Old Clee, Grimsby DN32 8NB.

Service Times

Church services are on Sundays (times vary) and the first Tuesday of the month at 10am. You would be very welcome to go and worship. You’ll probably meet Geoff while you’re there!

Find out more about Old Clee Church here.

Share this story