Who is Reverend James Wallis from One-Eyed Cat and what is their importance?

Reverend James Wallis is Ned's father. He is the pastor of the Congregational Church in Tyler, New York, and he is described as a charitable man with a good sense of humor. Reverend Wallis loves his family very much, but is often distracted. He does, however, care tirelessly for his wife and and son.