Fr Roger Douglas, the third Rector at Saint Philip’s, will be memorialized at 3:00pm-5:30pm on Saturday, March 22, at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church in Palm Desert, CA.

The service will be live-streamed at this link.

The Rev’d Dr. Roger Douglas, age 92, of Palm Desert passed away on February 21, 2025 at his home following a short illness.

Born in New York City, Roger became as Episcopal priest and was a graduate of Trinity College, Berkeley Seminary at Yale, and Virginia Theological Seminary. He served for over 50 years as Rector in parishes in New Jersey, Connecticut, and Arizona.

Following retirement, he assisted at St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church, Palm Desert as Interim Priest during its transition to a new Rector.

Roger’s interest in parish ministry included strengthening congregational membership participation and leadership, creating sermons, and always promoting social justice. Inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King, he joined the March in Selma in 1965—an experience he never forgot.

Roger was an avid tennis player until his later years when he happily took up golf and enjoyed the friendships and the exercise. He also became passionate about bridge and spent many hours studying the game and playing with friends.

A gifted writer, Roger authored five books following his retirement: The Pilgrim Season: Finding Yourself in Retirement; The Sacred Dance: New Possibilities for Later Life; Letters to Mark: Some Practical Advice As You Begin Your Ministry; Letting Go: One Golfer’s Journey; and, An Audience of One: Sermons for Reflection in Uncertain Times.

He is survived by his wife Margaret “Peggy;” sister, Ellen Kiam of New York City, and his children, Christopher of Loxahatchee Fl (Kelly); Scott of Palos Verdes, CA,(Kristine); Matthew of Manhattan Beach, CA (Susan); and, daughter Mary Ellen “Mimi” of Santa Monica, CA. He was very proud of his eight grandchildren Kendyl,(Ryan); Roger Jacob “Jake,” (Hannah); Trent, Griffin, Brady, Peyton, Emily Margaret, and Ethan, and two great grandchildren Taytum and Stella.