The Reverend Sir Francis Cooke Caulfeild Heathcote, Baronet of Hursley, was born in 1868, at Stamford, Northhamptonshire, England. The Heathcote family descended from a common ancestor, Thomas Heathcote of Chesterfield, who died in 1492. The young Francis received a private education in his early years, then entered Lancing College, Sussex, England. He left for Canada in 1882 to avoid family pressure that he become a banker. He worked instead on a farm in Peterborough, Ontario for two years and became interested in the ministry. After graduating from Trinity College, Toronto, he was ordained priest for the Mission of King and Maple Leaf in 1891. He served as curate of St. Simon's church in Toronto (1895-1896), later becoming rector of St. Clement's church until 1905. He moved to Winnipeg that same year where he was inducted rector of All Saints' church. Sir Francis Heathcote was instrumental in establishing the King Edward Settlement House in Winnipeg, where he was Rural dean for a time. He exerted influence not only in the city, but also in the Ddiocese of Rupert's Land where he was recognized as an inspiring preacher, and a man of strong, unconventional personality. In 1913, the Bishop of New Westminster, Adam Urias de Pencier, appointed Sir Francis as Archdeacon of Vancouver. He also became president of the Ministerial Association, The Welfare Federation, and was active in various aspects of the life of the diocese. He was member of the Executive Council of the General Synod, twice Deputy Prolocutor and Prolocutor of this body. In 1940 he succeeded the late Reverend Adam Urias de Pencier as Bishop of the Diocese of New Westminster (1941-1951). Sir Francis Heathcote retired in 1951 at the age of 83. Tall and robust, he has always been known and admired for his sterling character and his interest in the general work of the church.