Father John Porter was born at Dukinfield and after following his course of studies at Ushaw and the English College. Rome, was ordained In 1909. His curacies were served at SS. Peter & Paul's, New Brighton, St Werburgh's, Birkenhead and St. Werburgh's. Chester.
On his appointment as parish priest, in 1925, Pr. Porter took charge of St. Mary's, Shifnal for four years. and then moved to Upton. In 1931, he became parish priest at Our Lady's, Latchford, and three years later, at St Werburgh's. Birkenhead. he had already done a period of service as Diocesan Inspector of Schools.
In 1936 Indifferent health brought a change from Birkenhead to one of the most beautiful parts of Shropshire, and at Church Stretton, Fr. Porter passed the remaining 21 years of his life, he died suddenly on August 22nd. aged 77. By his death, the small Catholic community there lost a wise counsellor and friend.
His Lordship the Bishop offered the Requiem Mass at Church Stretton, assisted by Fr John Porter of St. Mary's, Billington nr. Blackburn, and Fr. J. O'Donnell of Our Lady's, Stockport, nephews of the deceased priest. The interment took place in the family grave at Dukinfield.
Simple and retiring in character, nevertheless Fr. Porter was well known and respected by many people. He was never happier than when in the company of his fellow clergy.
