Rev. Fran Toy, Episcopal Church's first Asian American woman priest, dies at 90

The Rev. Fran Toy, the first Asian American woman ordained as an Episcopal priest, has died at the age of 90. Her passing on December 28, 2024, marks the end of a pioneering career that spanned decades of ministry and advocacy. Toy's ordination in 1974 opened doors for generations of Asian American clergy in The Episcopal Church.

Fran Toy was ordained on June 8, 1985, in the Diocese of California, though her groundbreaking journey began earlier. In 1974, she became the first Asian American woman priest in The Episcopal Church USA, paving the way for others like Rita Nakashima Brock, Channing Judd, Grace Yokozuka, and Diana Nishigaya. These women expanded feminist theology, multicultural ministry, and leadership training for Asian-Pacific Islander communities.

Her service extended beyond parish work. From 1994 to 2000, she sat on The Episcopal Church's deployment board, shaping clergy placements nationwide. Earlier, in 1991, she was appointed by the Executive Council to represent the church at the Seventh Assembly of the World Council of Churches. Between 1999 and 2005, she taught spirituality at the CREDO Institute, guiding clergy in personal and professional growth. Locally, Toy served as a priest associate at St. John's Episcopal Church in Oakland for many years. She also worked for nine years as a deployment officer at Church Divinity School of the Pacific. Her involvement with Asiamerica Ministries further strengthened support for Asian American Episcopal communities. In 1988, she made history again as the Diocese of California's first female deputy to General Convention. Bishop Diana Akiyama, the first Asian American woman bishop in The Episcopal Church, later reflected on Toy's enduring influence. Akiyama described her as a mentor who championed justice and mentored countless leaders.

Toy's death leaves a legacy of barrier-breaking service. Her ordination inspired at least four prominent Asian American women priests, whose work expanded cultural inclusion and advocacy. The Episcopal Church remembers her as a trailblazer in ministry, education, and leadership development.