Chaplain at Peace Hospice Care in Watford, Reverend Michael Carter, has stepped down after more than 20 years' service.
Touching tributes to his "remarkable work" were paid during a small celebration party this week.
Looking back on two decades of giving spiritual guidance to hospice patients, Rev Carter described his role as having been an "enormous privilege".
He said: "It has been a job that has value and really is the most satisfying experience of my life."
His long term devotion to the care team was marked by the presentation of a Certificate of Recognition by the Hospice Spiritual Care co-ordinator Jason Demant who said: "Today we celebrate and thank the Rev Michael Carter of the twenty years he has been involved with the Hospice.
"He has touched the lives of hundreds of patients and given thousands of hours to Peace Hospice Care. Any form of gratitude is only a token."
Peace Hospice Care Chief Executive Sue Plummer echoed the praise and passed on her heartfelt thanks on behalf of the Hospice and trustees.
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