There they remained for three years and saw the erection of the first parsonage in York. As time progressed, the Wardell-Johnson’s health was affected by the extreme heat, something to which they were not accustomed. A cooler place was necessary and a position in Albany was available.

Reverend Wardell-Johnson became Rector of St John’s Anglican Church, in York Street, Albany in 1873 and worked tirelessly for the church and community. Of note during the Reverend’s time in Western Australia was his introduction of ‘Hymns, Ancient and Modern’ into the Anglican Church. The Reverend Wardell-Johnson was responsible for the first surpliced choir in St John’s Anglican Church in Albany.

A surpliced choir comprises of men and boys wearing a white loose-fitting vestment called a surplice over a long-sleeved garment or cassock (either red or black) which is long-sleeved and full-length. Usually seen traditionally in Anglican and Catholic churches.

Noted as being of a broad-mind, the Reverend Wardell-Johnson was a non-conformist and embraced every individual at face value. Adopting a mantra of non-judgmentalism, Reverend Wardell-Johnson mingled amongst all levels of society effortlessly and contributed continuously to his parishioners; extending his assistance to anyone he encountered.

A man who was not a respecter of persons, the Reverend displayed diplomacy and compassion and was always unassuming in his church activities. Putting himself as an equal within the community gained the admiration and respect of the residents of Albany. Baptising countless infants and performing numerous wedding ceremonies, Reverend Wardell-Johnson became a father figure to the close-knit Albany residents.

In 1890 a large residence was constructed for Reverend Wardell-Johnson and his family. Built on the site now known as ‘The Priory,’ the house was designed by well-known architect, Francis Bird. It seems that there is some doubt who the builder was, some records indicate it was Mr Charlie Layton, yet another says it was Mr Sangster.

In 1891, the Reverend took a well-earned break and travelled to Melbourne, the first holiday since taking on the role of Rector of St John’s Church. By the late 1890’s, the health of Reverend William Wardell-Johnson began to deteriorate. The busy schedule the Reverend placed upon himself had taken its toll.

Diagnosed with the onset of Bright’s Disease (nephritis or kidney disease) in 1896, the Reverend’s health began to decline. Local and well-respected physician, Dr Frederick Ingoldby stressed the need for the Reverend to slow down at the risk of serious health implications.

Choosing to continue his work with vigour, the Reverend was dedicated to his parishioners with little time to give himself respite. The Chancel addition to St John’s Church was at the instigation of the Reverend, which he oversaw diligently.

St Werburgh’s church in Mount Barker was built to the Reverend’s design. The Reverend personally gave his time to Mr George Egerton-Warburton to construct the church, which is in a Gothic Revival style. The building of the church was commenced in 1872 and consecrated in 1874.

Selfless in every way, Reverend Wardell-Johnson was always available to assist or advise anyone who entered his orbit wanting solace or just a friendly chat to pass the time of day.

The Reverend’s wife, Mrs Emily Wardell-Johnson was also known for her generosity and untiring support to her husband and his numerous activities. For twenty-five years Reverend William Wardell-Johnson laboured ceaselessly, displaying a constancy and reliability to the Anglican church and its congregation. Known throughout Albany as a gentle and tremendously caring man, Reverend William Wardell-Johnson gave of himself without reserve, placing others foremost in his daily ministerial work.

The standard the man set was exemplary, and the Reverend’s reputation extended beyond the Albany township into surrounding communities. Where there was an obstacle, the Reverend only saw a way forward. Where there was a negative situation, the Reverend only perceived a positive solution.

Another of the Reverend’s many roles was the Chaplain for the Manchester Unity of Oddfellows, based in Albany. In addition to this, he was involved with a plethora of charitable organisations.

A few months prior to his death, the Reverend reluctantly relinquished the rectorship of St John’s Anglican Church to Reverend D Howell Griffith.

Days prior to his death, the Reverend was now confined to his bed, and in a semi-conscious state. The Reverend Wardell-Johnson recited the Lord’s Prayer and began a sermon to those gathered in the room. Gradually the pain became too much for the ailing man to bear, and the Reverend halted his speech, apologising in his characteristic humble style.

Saying that the pain in his head was extreme, the Reverend lapsed into a deep sleep. A few days later the Reverend’s eldest son, Dr William Wardell-Johnson from York, visited his father. Upon entering the room, the ailing Reverend clasped the hand of his son, unable to speak yet the eyes of the dying man said everything.

He had fought the good fight and now the Reverend was ready to fall asleep into eternal rest, passing away on the 11 June 1898, aged 64. Sadly, only a year ago, Mrs Wardell-Johnson had suffered a debilitating stroke requiring daily care. Six of the Wardell-Johnson offspring were still alive at the time of their father’s death.

A service was held by the Reverend D Howell Griffith, which was attended by most of Albany’s prominent citizens and locals alike, including many paying respect from outlying towns. The Reverend was buried in the Anglican Cemetery in Albany.

The loss of the Reverend William Wardell-Johnson was profound, yet his legacy remains. The man’s qualities and selfless deeds resounded throughout the region, to which it has not been seen since.