Playfere, Thomas (1562-03-25 - 1609-02-01)

The exact birth date of Thomas Playfere is unknown. He was born in London in c. 1562, the second son of William Playfere (d. 1696) and his wife Alice. Thomas Playfere was a scholar at St John's College, Cambridge. He graduated B.A. in 1579/80 and proceeded M.A. in 1583. The following year, on 10 April, he became a Fellow. In 1590, Playfere was awarded the degree of B.D. He was admitted at the Inner Temple in 1594. From 1595, he was instituted to the rectories Ruan Lanihorne (Cornwall), Cheam (Surrey), and Shipdham (Norfolk). He also served as chaplain to King James I. After proceeding D.D. in 1595, he became Lady Margaret Professor of Divinity, a post he held until his death on 1 February 1609. He was buried at St Botolph's, Cambridge two days later. His bestselling sermons continued to be reprinted widely after his death.