Obituaries - Asbury Theological Seminary (2024)

Published Date: June 3, 2024

Robert K. Allen, aged 81, of Frankfort, passed away Monday, January 8^th, 2024 at Villa Franciscan Rehabilitation Center in Joliet.

Robert is survived by his loving family, wife, Patricia Allen (Burns), sons, Michael Allen and Teague Allen.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth & Jean Allen (Kooyenga), and his pet dog,Bonzo.

Robert was a member of St. Peter’s Church in Frankfort and formerly employed as a toy designer for Kenner Toy Company for many years; he also had a passion for cars, especially his 1963 Corvette.

Gerald F. Beck, B.Div. ’62, aged 88, of Midlothian, Texas, and formerly of Collins, passed away Thursday, Oct. 16, 2022, at his residence surrounded by his family.

He was born April 8, 1934, in Collins, to the late Dwight and Mayme (Smith) Beck. He received his Business Degree at Oberlin College and worked with ASCS (Agricultural Conservation Service) for over 20 years. He was a member of Collins United Methodist Church where he served as a delegate and board member for decades and served the community through 4-H, local and county school boards, volunteer work at Fisher-Titus Medical Center, and Wakeman Ambulance Service. He also served countless hours with students at Western Reserve Schools.

He is survived by a son, Shawn Beck; daughter-in-law, Tammy Toledano Beck; granddaughter, Jaden (Beck) Daniels of Sandusky; and grandson, Triston Beck of Midlothian, Texas.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Florence E. (McEowen) Beck; parents; and sister, Marilyn (Beck) Pendleton.

Barney Wilson Brack, Jr., M.Div. ’87, aged 69, of Belleview, passed away on March 13, 2023. He was born on October 11, 1953, in Ocala, Florida a son to the late Barney Wilson and Mae Nannieleen(Royal) Brack, Sr. He was a Marine veteran serving in Vietnam. He was also a pastor and schoolteacher. He leaves behind to cherish his memory his devoted wife Beverly Sue (Cotton) Brack, three sons, Joseph, Philip and John Brack, a daughter Christy Condron, brother Gene Brack, sister Ann Lawrence, twelve grandchildren and one great grandchild.

James Duke Burdette, M.Div. ’92, aged 85, of Little Hocking, OH, was welcomed into his heavenly home on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, after an extended illness. He was born on January 18, 1939, in Beckley, WV, to Alma Ruth McKinney Burdette Woods and Orral Lorain Burdette, both of whom preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his grandson, Casey Dan Burdette, son-in-law, Rick Jordan, stepfather James Woods, and stepmother Helen Burdette.

A graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School in Beckley, Jim worked many jobs including Columbia Gas Transmission in Charleston, WV, until he answered his calling into ministry and earned his Master of Divinity at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, KY. He then served as pastor of six United Methodist churches in Craigsville, WV, Elkins, WV, Philippi, WV, and Parkersburg, WV. In his retirement, he worked as an associate chaplain at Camden Clark Memorial Hospital. Jim served on the Board of Directors of both Women’s Care Center and Crossroads United Methodist Church Camp in Parkersburg, WV. He was devoted to several ministries including Literacy Volunteers, Gideons International, and Kairos Prison Ministry. His life was dedicated to serving the Lord, and we believe he has heard the words “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Jim lived the love of Jesus Christ, and everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him received that love and peace. Jim had a great sense of humor, loved teasing, playing games, and spending time with family. Family gatherings always included good food, fun and games, a bit of good-hearted competitiveness, and much laughter – but most of all LOVE. The birds and wildlife were his friends, and he and his wife, Glenna, kept them well fed with handmade feeding areas they worked together to create. They had many pets throughout the years, and he leaves behind his special “Buddy,” the neighbor’s white cat, to whom he became quite attached. They also enjoyed their annual trips to Greenbo Lake State Park which held many special and treasured memories. They faithfully attended two churches, Decatur United Methodist Church and Torch Baptist Church, in their retirement. Gardening was also one of Jim’s passions, and he handed down his gifts and techniques to most of his children. He kept his family fed and shared with anyone and everyone. Giving was his great source of joy.

Left to carry on his legacy of living the love of Christ are his wife of 40 years, Glenna, brother Dr. Clifton Burdette (Sheila and family), children James Burdette Jr. (Terah), Jeff Burdette (Patty), Richard Burdette(Terrie), Steve Burdette (Martha), Patty Stainback (Gary), Susan McPhail (George), Beth Jordan, John Burdette (Krista), Jessica Claypole (J.C. Rodriguez), Joshua Burdette (Brittiany), and Greg Turley, 15 grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren with another expected soon.

Carol Jean Corbishley, M.A.C.E. ’76, age 76, of Bad Axe went home to be with her Lord and Savior on May 3, 2024.
She was born on August 17, 1947, in Bad Axe Michigan, daughter of the late Frank (Agnes) Ross and the late Jeanette (James) Hewitt.

Carol graduated from Ubly High School, the class of 1965 and went on to pursue her education at Spring Arbor College in Psychology and Social Science. She continued her education at Asbury Theological Seminary studying Christian Education, graduating in the class of 1976.

She was employed as a Social Worker at Huron Medical Center where she worked until she retired after 31 years. After retirement, Carol became ordained as an Elder in the Free Methodist Church, East Michigan Conference, and served as a Pastor of Congregational Life at the Bad Axe Free Methodist Church the rest of her life.

Carol lived her life to serve the Lord and to be an encouragement to other people. Her philosophy in life was to do the right thing no matter what.

Her goal was to live an example to show others that God is with us no matter what. Love the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
She continued spreading her faith until her last days by sharing her daily bible verses on Facebook. Above all else, being a mother and Grandmother brought Carol the most joy. Affectionately referred to as “Grammy” by her three grandchildren: Fisher, Hazel, and Baker.

Carol is survived by her two sons, Charles (Chelsea) Corbishley of Bad Axe and Christopher Corbishley of Lansing. Her grandchildren, Fisher, Hazel, and Baker Corbishley. Her sisters, Karen (Duey) Holz, Ruth (Larry) Fell, Kathy (John) Holz, Lori (Dan) Schultz, sister-in-law Donna Ross and her brother Kevin (JoLynn) Ross. Her Aunt Mary Lou & Uncle Kirk Powers, Uncle Bob Jelinek, and Aunt Leona McDonald. Several cousins, nieces and nephews and great niece and nephews, and several close friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Frank Ross and stepmother Agnes Ross and her mother Jeanette Hewitt and stepfather James Hewitt. Her brothers Gary Ross and Ken Ross and sister Shirley Bredow and brother-in-law Bill Bredow, beloved aunts and uncles and grandparents.

James Walter (“Walt”) Cramer, aged 96, died of congestive heart failure at The Homestead at Logan Acres, Bellefontaine, and entered into the fulness of eternal life, May 7, 2024. He was the youngest of five children born to the Rev. Charles Edward Cramer and Ruby Fern (McKill) Cramer. He was predeceased by his parents, his four siblings (Ruby Grace, Reba Gayle, Jesse Charles, and John Arthur), his wife Mary, and all 16 of his first-cousins.

He was born in Lynchburg, Highland County, Ohio. His schooling began at the one-room school in Gordon (Darke Co.); continued with grades 2, 3, and 4 at Fairhaven (Preble Co.); grades 5, 6, and 7 at South Lebanon (Warren Co.); 8^thgrade and first three years of high school at North Hampton (Clark Co.); and culminated in graduating with the York Center High School Class of 1945.

He met Mary Ruth Penhorwood after moving to York Center on June 6, 1944; they married July 25, 1947, and they were the parents of four children, all of whom survive along with their spouses: Alan Barry (Jeffrey Bessler) of Richmond, Indiana, Carolyn Sue (Charles) Rudd of Bellefontaine, Stephen Jay (Emily Frazer Cramer) of Lebanon, and Stephanie Kay (Bruce) McLaughlin of North Royalton. Also surviving are seven grandchildren, their spouses, and seven great-grandchildren, with an eighth due in June: Andrew Rudd and John Kamea; Stephanie Rudd; James Brent and Cathleen McLaughlin (Dorothy, Aiden, and Eliana); Kevin and Erin Cramer (expecting); Nathan and Madeline McLaughlin; Laura and Robert French (Lucy and James); and Timothy McLaughlin; a sister-in-law, Esther Penhorwood; and nieces and nephews.

His long career as a tool and die maker began with seven years at the Harding Machine Screw Company in East Liberty, and continued with nearly four decades at Detroit Aluminum and Brass and its successors (1953-1992). Walt took up part-time farming in his 40’s, along with his full-time tool-and-die work. Walt was proud to have been awarded Patent Number 2,816,363 for his design of a rotating-base micrometer that provided variously-shaped platforms for measuring thicknesses of machined steel pieces.

Mary and Walt moved from Union to Logan County in 1955, living outside West Mansfield for some 25 years before moving to their farm in Jefferson Township, where they lived together until Mary went to live at Green Hills in early 2017 until her death September 9, 2018.

Walt was a “preacher’s kid,” moving frequently as his father was appointed to various Methodist churches throughout southwestern and west central Ohio. He believed he was born in the same parsonage as the renowned preacher Dr. Norman Vincent Peale. He professed Christ at an early age and was a loyal member of the Methodist Church throughout his life, seventy-some years of which were at the Bethel Church near West Mansfield, until its closure in 2019. Most recently, he belonged to the Walnut Grove Methodist Church.

Walt lived a vibrant Christian life—but not without faults or vulnerabilities—and strived to teach by example as well as precept. He was deeply spiritual and maintained a daily devotional practice throughout his life. He had a beautiful baritone voice, loved singing the hymns of the church, and occasionally joined other men of the church in an ensemble (including especially his brother John, Jim Weiser, and Larry Davis.)

The church was Walt’s life. He ministered in various capacities, serving as a Board member and Sunday School Superintendent, and serving several years on the Boards of Youth for Christ and Camp Union. He was also a Boy Scout leader in the footsteps of his father and uncle Paul, serving as Scoutmaster of Troop 70 in West Mansfield.

Walt loved to travel and camp, and the family took many camping vacations. He had aspired to travel in all 50 states. The quest ended with his and Mary’s travel by car to Alaska, the 49^thstate, in celebration of their 49^thwedding anniversary, ending shy of the 50^thstate, Hawaii. He also traveled in Mexico and Canada. He loved baseball, which he played throughout his school years, and slow-pitch softball, which he played as an adult on company-sponsored teams, and he was a fan of the Cincinnati Reds.

Walt was a resident of The Homestead at Logan Acres for the last couple years of his life. The family is immensely grateful to the staffs of The Homestead and of Universal Home Health and Hospice Care for the care he received in his final days.

Tim was born September 16, 1966, to Wallace and Lois Dunn, the fifth of six children, in Johnson City, KS. Tim became a believer in Christ at age 9, starting a lifetime of following and serving his Savior. He grew up farming with his Dad in Richfield, KS. He attended Richfield Elementary school until it was closed and then Rolla Elementary, Middle School and High School graduating in 1985. He then attended Colby Community College, Colby, KS and graduated from Oklahoma Panhandle State University, Goodwell, OK in 1990 with a Bachelors in Agribusiness.

After graduating from college Tim worked farming with his Dad and then took over the farm in Richfield, KS. He loved farming and was progressive in the community researching and implementing no-till. He farmed from 1990-2006, the last 2 years adding Crop Insurance Adjusting to his workload. A natural gas refrigeration plant had been set up on the family farmland and Tim was asked to be Operator for the plant from 1995-2006. The plant then moved to Coldwater, KS and Tim moved there 2006-2007 as full time Operator.

Tim had a servant’s heart, helping friends and family in farming, various projects and served his community in many ways. His volunteer service included: Morton County Farm Bureau Board of Directors, Morton County Conservation District Board of Supervisors, Rolla Co-op Board of Directors, Elkhart Co-op Board of Directors, Morton County Extension Council Executive Board, Morton County Fair-Field Crop Superintendent, Richfield United Methodist Church Administrative Council, Morton County Volunteer Fireman-Richfield, Comanche County Volunteer Fireman-Coldwater, Coldwater United Methodist Church Financial Secretary, AWANA Youth Leader, Bethel Friends Church Missions Committee.

In 2007 God moved in Tim’s heart leading him in some new directions. A mutual friend introduced Tim & Janna starting with a wonderful friendship leading to engagement and they were married April 12, 2008. He felt God calling him to ministry, so started seminary classes with Asbury Theological Seminary. God led Tim & Janna into missions where they served with Wycliffe Associates overseas in the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea as well as headquarters in Orlando, FL, and with World Gospel Mission in McAllen, TX. In the midst of missions work, Tim became a father to a beautiful daughter, Adria, born Aug 15, 2012.

After working in missions Tim worked for some farmers in Morton & Stevens counties, Wilbur Ellis, USD# 217 Rolla Schools as Director of Transportation & Maintenance, Rolla, KS and a move to Topeka, KS for Facilities Manager at Cair Paravel Latin School.

Tim loved doing puzzles, playing games, riding bikes with his family, planting and harvesting vegetable gardens with Adria, bonfire cookouts, he built beautiful wood furniture, had lots of fun in our family pool & at the lake, and a favorite time of day was family reading time in the evenings,

Tim is survived by his wife, Janna; daughter, Adria; mother, Lois Dunn; brother Sam Dunn (Rachel), sisters Penny James (JC), Becky Stukey (Doug), Phoebe Brummett (Karick); many nephews, nieces, and a big extended family. He was preceded in death by his father, Wallace Dunn, brother, John Dunn a miscarried baby, nephews, Chad Stukey & Philip Dunn, great-nephew, Jeremiah Stukey, niece-in-law, Amanda Dunn and many aunts & uncles.

Harold M Hannum, B.Div. ’62, aged 86, of Spring, Texas passed away on Saturday, March 2, 2024.

Nancy Ann Lindquist, B.Div. ’61, aged 90, of Ellicott City, MD went home to be with her Lord Jesus Christ and into the loving arms of her husband, Dave on May 9, 2024.

Nancy was born in a very poor but loving family in Ryner, VA. Bernard and Catherine Whitlock were coming through the Great Depression and had 10 children with Nancy being number 9 of 10. Harry Nelson, Charles, W. Bernard Jr., Gene, Arlene, Louise, Maxwell, Doris, and Helen have all preceded Nancy. She was the last of her generation. Growing up Nancy attended a one-room school house. In spite of this limitation, Nancy’s mom, Ms. Kate, was a certified teacher and made sure all of her children valued education. Nancy went on to Radford College for Girls earning her B.A. and then both Asbury Seminary and Bowie State College earning two Master degrees.

Education and counseling were her specialties. Nancy was a gifted Bible teacher and a valued guidance counselor. Meeting her husband and fellow educator of some 63 years, Dave Lindquist was a highlight of her life. They shared a wonderful life together and produced one son, Wesley Lindquist who married Esther Lindquist. Nancy had one grandchild, Susanna Lindquist-Buccelli of NJ. Attending Susanna’s wedding was another highlight of her life and she loved her new grandson, Nicholas Buccelli.

It is difficult to encapsulate the thousands of students, teachers, friends, and even strangers Nancy’s life touched. Her Christian faith was one of prayer and action. Praying for students and teachers in the public school system, leading a multitude of Sunday School and church classes, becoming the principal of Berwyn Baptist School, leading many committees over her +50 years at Mt. Zion UMC of Highland, MD, and serving for years on the Howard County Jail Ministry were just some of the ways Nancy expressed her faith. But those who knew Nancy appreciated her “cooking ministry!” She was famous for cooking a spectacular meal on a moment’s notice.

Having the pleasure of a home-made meal “on the back porch” her many cookies, candy and a renown coconut cake with egg custard for Christmas each year were just some of the ways Nancy showed her love.

Dave and Nancy were united in their love and in their faith. Helping others, whether friends, family or strangers was a huge part of their lives together. Sadly, her last few years of her life included dementia. Her world shrank, but her Spirit remained loving and kind. Trying to “help” her fellow dementia patients was a testimony to how deep her faith and desire to serve others really went. We deeply appreciate the kind staff at Lighthouse Sr. Living and how well they took care of Dave and Nancy. Thankfully she is now in her right mind and reunited with her loving Dave standing in the presence of Her Lord. “Well done faithful servant” is her epithet.

Rev. Dennis L. Payton, aged 69, Mooresville, passed away peacefully at his home on July 21, 2023, after a well fought battle with stomach cancer. Dennis was born December 8, 1953, in LaGrange, Kentucky, to the late Rev. L.D. and Dorothy (Shearer) Payton. Dennis married his beloved wife, Tammy, on March 18, 1975, and she survives.

Dennis graduated from Circle High School, Asbury College, and from the United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio. He enjoyed a 44-year career as a minister in the United Methodist Church. Dennis served at the Crothersville United Methodist Church and the Cana United Methodist Church in Jackson County, Indiana from 1977-83. From 1983-2005, he served in Loogootee. In 2005, he was transferred to the First United Methodist Church in Mooresville, where he served for 16 years, until his retirement in 2021.

In addition to his love for the church and ministering, Dennis had an incredible affection and appreciation for horses. Dennis spent much time riding horses, breaking horses, and ministering to many friends while on horseback. He loved to spend time with his family and make memories, especially with his grandchildren. Dennis was proud of the three generations of Payton men, including his father, and his two sons, who serve in the United Methodist Church. Dennis’ memory will be cherished by a loving family and many friends.

Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Tammy; sons,Rev. Andrew D. (Leslie) Payton and Rev. Daniel L. (Sarah) Payton; sister, Leslee D. Payton; grandchildren, Jayden, Paige, and Ella Payton; Emily, Carter, and Luke Payton.

Paul Edward Schantz, B.Div. ’65, aged 84, of Evans, Georgia passed away at his home on October 14, 2023. Paul was born on March 19, 1939 in Ortley, South Dakota, to Omar and Viola Schantz. He was the youngest of 7 sisters and brothers. He graduated from Greenville College in Greenville, Illinois in 1961, with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Philosophy/Religion. In 1964, he graduated from Asbury Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky, with a Masters of Divinity. On August 9, 1963, he married Janice Kaye Bryant.

He was ordained and served as a pastor in the Atlantic Southeast Conference of the Free Methodist Church for more than 30 years. He pastored churches in Marietta, Georgia, Gainesville, Georgia, Atlanta, Georgia and Huntsville, Alabama, respectively. He started CPE training in 1995. During his second year of training, he became a Contract Chaplain at the VA Hospital in Augusta, Georgia, while training for his CPE in Birmingham, Alabama. During that same time, he was also a hospice Chaplain in Northeast Alabama and drove many miles that year. Not only did he receive his CPE from Carraway Methodist Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama in 1997 but that same year he was nominated and then received the honor of becoming the National Contract Chaplain of the Year for the United States Department of Veterans Affairs.

Paul is preceded in death by his parents Omar and Viola Williamson Schantz, his sister, Mary Ellen Schantz Bonney and his brothers, John Schantz, Leroy Schantz and Ralph Schantz.

Paul is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Janice Bryant Schantz; his daughters, René Schantz Ingle, Tammy Schantz Weigel (Tim), Chrisi Schantz Dyer (Todd) and his grandchildren, Kaelin René Limeberry (Dustin), Alexis Kaye Hock, Alyssa Grace Hock, Levi Paul Dyer, Joy Marie Dyer. He is also survived by his siblings, Ruth Schantz Bonney and Howard Schantz.

Over the years of his ministry, the relationships Paul built were for the sole purpose of telling others how much Jesus loved them, specifically through his actions rather than his words. He was pastor, counselor, advisor, mentor and friend to so many while providing a wonderful example of his Heavenly Father as a husband and Daddy at home. He will be dearly missed.

The family is so grateful for the thoughts, prayers and delicious meals from the congregations of Riverview Church, Parkway Baptist Church as well as co-workers from the VA. We’re also grateful for the care given by Right At Home Health Care and Regency Hospice.

Reimar A.C. Schultze, M.Div. ’67, aged 88, slipped through heaven’s gates on May 14, 2024. He was at his home surrounded by family at the time of his passing. Reimar was born May 10, 1936, in Hamburg, Germany. His parents were Alfred Schultze and Ilse (Bennigson) Schultze. His childhood was marked by the effects of being part Jewish during the Holocaust. God did miracles to protect him during this time. He lost his father and his baby sister during the war. His mother and one brother preceded him in death since that time.

He is survived by his sister, Maria, and his brother, Martin; and the love of his life, Marcia (VanZile) Schultze, whom he married on Jan. 20, 1962. They had four children, Esther (Robert) Morey, Karin (Donald) Litchfield, Cameron (Melissa) Schultze and Chester (Kim) Schultze. They enjoy 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. Reimar came to the states at age 19. He eventually went to Asbury Seminary and pastored for over 40 years. He is the author of five books and wrote the Call to Obedience newsletter with recipients in the U.S. and other countries. He preached every Sunday on WWKI in Kokomo for decades.

Reverend Doctor Bishop Gerald Wayne Reliford, M.Div. ’75, aged 76, of Columbia, Kypassed away Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at his residence surrounded by his family. He was born in Green County, KY on June 11, 1947, to the late Arvil Larue and Thera B. Sparks Reliford.

Rev. Reliford enjoyed fishing, University of Kentucky sports and spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren.

Reverend Gerald Reliford was ordained with the AEGA Ministries Int’l, Inc. on August 13, 2000. His many years of service to the Body of Christ made him an outstanding example of what a minister should be. He was a 1975 graduate of Asbury Theological Seminary, but his love and study of the Word of God did not end with graduation. It was his unparalleled understanding of the Word of God that made him a valuable adjunct professor for Omega Bible Institute and Seminary. On September 17, 2003, he accepted the responsibility of serving as an area coordinator for his area willing to hold annual area conferences and contact ministers in his region concerning joining AEGA Ministries.

His knowledge and experience as a minister were so evident that the Executive Board of AEGA Ministries selected him to serve on the International Board of Bishops. He served the office with integrity and a standard of holiness. Even while battling many years of attacks on his physical body, he continued to be the prayer support for the fellowship when he could not physically meet with them.

In his 53 years in ministry, Dr. Reliford, and his wife, LaVerne, traveled as evangelists, teachers, and music ministers throughout the Southern and Eastern United States. They pastored Bethlehem United Methodist church from 1971-1975. During 1976, they served as pastors for Smith Mills United Methodist and Geneva United Methodist churches. They spent the past 44 years co-pastoring New Life for the Nations Church, which they founded in 1980. An ordained minister with the AEGA, Dr. Reliford served as a missionary to five different nations, and taught Bible School curriculum, which he authored.

He held a Bachelor of Science in History and Political Science from Campbellsville University where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. In addition, he held a Master of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary and a Doctorate in Ministry from Omega Bible Institute and Seminary. He was listed in the Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities and was twice included in the Outstanding Young Men of America publication in 1974 and 1976.

Survivors include his wife LaVerne Draper Reliford ofColumbia, KY; two children Scott Reliford (Cindy) ofLewis Center, OHand Miriam Hughes (Ricardo) ofColumbia, KY; four grandchildren Kaylin, MaKenzie, Mercedes, and Matthew Hughes; a great grandson Creed Hughes and several cousins, friends, and other relatives.

U.S. Army Lt. Colonel Chaplain Douglas Ray Stephenson, Retired, M.Div. ’71, aged 77, of Cedartown, GA, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024, at his residence.

Doug was born in Pasadena, Texas on January 14, 1947, son of the late Clifton Ray Stephenson and the late Doris Eloise Ainsworth Stephenson. Doug retired from the U.S. Army in 1992 following 20 years of service during the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. He served as a Paratrooper with the 82 Airborne Division 1st in 504th Airborne Infantry Regiment 82nd Airborne Division and the 325 Airborne Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division. He also served as Chaplain for the US Army Special Forces Command Airborne and the 5th Special Forces Group Airborne at Ft. Bragg, NC, commonly known as the Green Berets.

Doug was a minister with the Church of God of Prophecy and had served as Pastor for eight churches in Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Georgia. He was currently a member of the Church of God of Prophecy in Douglasville, GA. Doug was a member of the V.F.W. Post #4911 and the D.A.V. where he had helped numerous veterans obtain disability benefits.

Survivors include his wife, Judith Brooks Stephenson; a daughter, Amanda Owen (Bryan); a son, David Stephenson (Tina); eight grandchildren, Andrew Owen (Katie), USAF Cpt. Hayden Owen (Miranda), Peyton Owen, Emma Kate Owen; Jaden Stephenson (Audrey Faulk), Anna Stephenson, Reagan Stephenson, and Leigha Stephenson; one great grandson, Eli Owen; three sisters, Molly Wyatt, Colleen Womack, and Donna Brogdon; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other relatives.

Dr. Lilburn E. Wesche, aged 94, of Boise concluded his sojourn on earth on April 28, 2024 after a brief illness. Dr. Wesche was born November 21, 1929 in Taming, China, son of missionary parents, Rev. Kenneth and Pearl Wesche. His family left China in 1940 and during the war they lived in Wilmore, Kentucky where Lilburn attended Wilmore schools and his father taught at Asbury Seminary.

When the war ended and his parents returned to China. Lilburn moved to Nampa for his senior year of high school and then attended Northwest Nazarene College, graduating in 1951. There he met Esther Rinker and it was love at first sight. They were married in 1953 in Hastings, Nebraska.

Lilburn enlisted in the US Army in 1952 and was assigned to the Signal Corps. He was stationed first at San Luis Obispo, CA and later at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio. He advanced to the rank of sergeant receiving a meritorious promotion while serving as a reporter for Stars and Stripes and as information officer for the 321st Signal Base depot. Upon separation from the military he completed his Master’s degree in Educational Administration at Trinity University in San Antonio then accepted a teaching, counseling and coaching assignment at Hill City, Kansas High School.

In 1957 the family moved to Meridian where he was principal of the newly created middle school. At the same time he pursued a doctorate in Educational administration and Curriculum at the University of Northern Colorado completing the degree in 1961.

That year he was invited to join the faculty at Northwest Nazarene College as Director of Teacher Education and Division Chair of Professional studies. Under his leadership NNC received national accreditation for Teacher Education and national recognition for the quality of its program. In 1981 he accepted an administrative position at Seattle Pacific University then returned to the faculty at NNU in 1988 as Director of Graduate Studies and, in 1993 was Academic Vice President

Active in his profession, Dr. Wesche pursued post-doctoral studies at UCLA, San Jose State, the University of Colorado-Denver, and the University of Cincinnati. He was president of the Idaho Education Association in 1963 and a member of the Board of Directors of the National Education association from 1964 to 1970. He also served on the IEA executive board for 18 years. He was a member of the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE) review board and chaired over 40 accreditation teams reviewing university teacher education programs throughout the United States.

He was listed in Who’s Who in Education and was a life member of the education fraternity, Phi Delta Kappa, serving as president of the Seattle University chapter and the Southwest Idaho chapter. He also chaired the Idaho Association of Teacher Educators, was a member and vice chair of the Idaho Professional Standards Commission, and was an evaluator of secondary schools, prison schools and special programs for the United States Department of Education and the Idaho Department of Education.

In college he was active beyond the classroom, coaching grade school soccer and basketball and the college JV basketball team, serving as play-by-play sports announcer for the campus radio station, sports editor and editor of the college newspaper while also working for the local daily newspaper as sports reporter. As a college professor, parent and grandparent, he coached his son’s and a grandson’s little league and Babe Ruth baseball teams.

An active Christian he was a member of numerous church councils and committees, taught adult and teen Sunday school and education classes in churches they attended in Nampa, Boise and Seattle and was a founding member of Epworth Chapel on the Green in Boise.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Pearl Wesche, his second mother, Agnes, and four brothers: Paul, Robert, David and Daniel; He is survived by his wife, Esther Rinker Wesche, three children, Kenneth (Nancy) of Minneapolis, Cheryl Childs (Kenton) of Albuquerque, NM; and Barbara of Boise; ten grandchildren: Christofer Bellomy, Christina (Emanuel) Sas, Bradley Childs, Robert (Leila) Childs, Kayla Anderson, and Sam Anderson, Sean Wesche (Rachel), Mark Wesche(Nadia), Nicholas Wesche (Jocelyn), and Katie Jubran (Jerry); and 16 great grandchildren: Corbin and Jayden Bellomy, Olympia, Damian and Lucia, Gabriel Sas, Michael and Sullivan Childs, Ivy and Maeve Lilywhite, Henry, George, John Lafayette. Luke, Benjamin and Noah, and Sebastian and Cyprian Wesche.

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