Obituaries
Lori Lynne Bachmann, M.A. in Pastoral Counseling ’15, aged 67, of Brownsville, Texas, devoted daughter, sister, and friend, entered eternal rest on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at her residence. She was born in Gary, Indiana on January 19, 1957.
Lori was preceded in death by her father William A. Bachmann, her mother “Puff” Younkes and her brother Billy Bachmann.
She is survived by her two sisters, Marnee Bachmann and Heidi Lobprise; her four nieces; and 10 grand-nieces and nephews; and many amazing life-long friends, especially Marta Chapa.
Despite chronic pain and migraines from trauma at age 20, Lori dedicated her life to serve God, as a true servant leader. From churches in Wisconsin, Texas, Florida and back to Texas, she ministered to children, youth, adults and even those in hospice care.
Christopher R. Brown, M.A. in Biblical Studies ’05, aged 46, peacefully passed away Saturday January 4 at Baptist Hospital in Lexington, KY surrounded by loving family.Christopher was born in Madisonville, KY and was the oldest soul on the planet. He never met a stranger and had a special way of befriending the elderly. This was the case since his earliest years and remained so throughout his life.
Since childhood, Christopher was a sports and weather aficionado. He kept notebooks of daily highs and lows, wind chill, heat index, and barometric pressure that he produced from recordings (analogue VHS) of the weather channel. His senior year of high school, the principal conferred with him to determine whether to have graduation ceremonies outside or inside; Christopher then jokingly referred to himself as “an official weather recorder for the National Weather Service.” Thus, his life-long excitement for extreme weather was born as well as his dream to become a meteorologist. Snow literally made him giddy; sleet: effervescent; tornadoes—full-bore childhood glee. His love for the weather and the elderly culminated when it snowed, and he would go door-to-door to the homes of older neighbors and personally, on-foot, fulfilling their grocery orders from the near-by grocer.
He had pretty much any baseball statistic memorized, dating back to the beginning of the sport, with the Cubs, Braves, and Dodgers being his favorite teams. He also loved football, specifically the Bears, Madisonville Maroons, and University of Kentucky (UK), and as imagined, UK basketball.
He attended Madisonville North Hopkins High School, which was formative for his love of the academic team and statistics. He adored so many teachers there, particularly Mrs. Pat Walters, whom he considered a mentor. She invited him to provide peer tutoring in her Humanities class, which he stated gave him his sense of confidence as he moved into higher education. Here his exceptional memorization for statistics propelled him as a member of the Madisonville North Hopkins Academic Team, where he immediately went from being a sophomore junior varsity member, to setting numerous records and being upgraded to the varsity team. His memory was impeccable, and this was apparent whether in banal exchanges, scholastics, or trivia. He was truly a walking encyclopedia and loved geography trivia. With trivia in general, he had a specific talent for quick recall, which made him a particularly menacing contender. He so hoped to visit all 50 states and came very close but lacked a few. A friend recently recalled a related and quirky anecdote, “One time he and I drove to Mississippi, just across the state line from Memphis, ate lunch at a Wendy’s in Southaven, and then drove back, just for Chris to say he had been to Mississippi; also, that trip, we left his driveway exactly at 07:00 a.m. on the dot and the whole way, he had mapped out various checkpoints, like crossing state lines and this was before Mapquest. He did this by hand, and he was precise within one minute.” Throughout his early life, he also stayed committed to the Boy Scouts of America, climbing all the way to Life Scout status.
One of Christopher’s most cherished and lifelong loves was the church. Growing up, he spent three days a week attending First Baptist Church of Madisonville with his grandparents, where he sang in the choir, learned to play the pipe organ (as an old soul does), and returned later as a minister. Though he was deeply invested in meteorology, he read a book called “Exploring God” by Henry Blackaby and this led him to believe he was called to be a pastor.
He then attended Georgetown College, majoring in Religious Studies. Throughout college, he worked at Dillard’s as a shark of a salesman in the men’s department with a specialty in business suit attire; during this time, he also was a member of the Georgetown Academic Team, for which he also set numerous records and his team held victory over Harvard University in a national championship. He went on to earn a master’s degree from Asbury Theological Seminary, where he studied Old Testament Hebrew. Following his time in seminary, he was ordained in 2005 as a Baptist minister and served as Associate Pastor for Worship for Broadway Baptist Church for over four years. During this time, he sang with the Lexington Singers choir, participating in and listening to the oratorio Handel’s Messiah as his favorite. His first son, Isaac Zachariah Brown, was born in 2007. He then served in leadership roles in other churches, including First Baptist Church of Madisonville as a Minister of Church and Growth and Salvisa Baptist Church as Senior Pastor. In all the churches, the congregation grew exponentially, and he occasionally played pipe organ with great fervor, with his most notable accomplishment learning to play Bach Toccata and Fugue in D Minor. His penchant for stats showed up here too, as he could not be stumped on hymn tunes, their composers, or even their page numbers in the hymnal!
Christopher later met and married the love of his life, Meghan. They shared their love for UK basketball and travel; together, they explored the Western U.S. (loving Beartooth Highway at Yellowstone Park), the East Coast (Amtrak to New York City), and Greece (“the trip of their lifetime”). In June of last year, his son James Clarence Brown was born and brought them immense joy.
At the time of his death, Christopher worked for Cartown Kia as a Sales Consultant, earning salesman of the year three years in a row; he was greatly admired and respected by his co-workers and had many return clients who valued his work ethic and integrity. He stated he had “found his community” through his membership with the Good Shepherd Episcopal church. He loved listening to Simon and Garfunkel and reading about current events and politics. He loved spending time with friends, including Ruth Carroll, who is soon to be 100 years old and kept a strong connection to his grandparents.
Most remarkable was Christopher’s love for God, his sons, wife, parents, siblings, and grandparents. His impact on many congregation members will be felt and remembered for decades. He was a truly exceptional human who spread joy and love for all who knew him.
He is survived by his wife, Meghan S. Brown, sons, Isaac Z. Brown and James C. Brown, mother, Margaret L. Brown, father, James Robin Brown, mother-in-law, Lee E. Shropshire, sister, L. Lauren Brown, brother, Wesley H. Brown, sisters-in-law, Sanja Simić and Kimberly K. Lynn, brothers-in-law, Jonathan E. Sewell and L. Christopher Lynn, nieces Zollie M. Sewell-Brown and Sadie E. Lynn, and nephews, Keen A. Sewell-Brown and Chance C. Lynn, and by his beloved fur-companions Farley and Faith. He is preceded in death by his grandparents Marie M. Spencer, Gene Spencer, James A. Mabrey, James W. Brown and Joyce A. Lutz and Artie E. Lutz.
Dan attended Fort Sumner schools, graduating with the Fort Sumner High School Class of 1968. While in school Dan participated in Band and played basketball. Dan was taught a good work ethic by his parents. Dan and his brother Jesse worked alongside their parents when they operated the Lake Sumner Hideaway and later at Sprout’s Café in Fort Sumner.
Following high school, Dan attended McMurry College in Abilene, Texas. He attended Perkins School of Theology at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas and received his Master’s Degree at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky. Dan served as Pastor at two Methodist churches in Texas including The Methodist Church at Hale Center, Texas.
He returned to Fort Sumner to care for his parents and for many years operated Sprout’s Café. After the café closed, Dan managed the Fast Stop/Chisolm mini-mart in Fort Sumner. He retired from Chisolm and went to work at Family Dollar for a time. Dan was an active member of the Fort Sumner business community for many years. He sponsored the sourdough biscuit toss for Old Fort Days, and served as Director of the Chamber of Commerce for several years.
Dan was an active member of First Baptist Church Fort Sumner. He was active as a member of the Praise Team and loved to be part of the music ministries of First Baptist. Dan served in Ministry with The Church on The Hill in Fort Sumner for several years. He enjoyed playing the piano and singing. Dan was an avid reader; he enjoyed reading mystery novels. He enjoyed his daily visits to the Fort Sumner Senior Citizens Center.
Dan is preceded in death by his parents, his brother and sister-in-law Jesse and Bobbie Craig.
Dan is survived by two nieces, Kimberly Joe Perez of Midland, Texas and Tracy Yvone Craig of Moscow, Idaho, along with a host of friends.
Dr. Burrell David Dinkins, aged 91, a devoted United Methodist minister and missionary, passed away peacefully in Wilmore, Kentucky on January 7th, 2025. His life was marked by a deep commitment to faith, service, and global outreach, leaving a legacy in both the United States and Brazil.
Burrell, the seventh of eleven children, was born on April 30th, 1933, to Edward and Bessie Dinkins in a small sharecropper house in Madison County, Florida. The family moved to Valdosta, Georgia, where Burrell attended elementary school and high school, and one year at Valdosta State College. He was then given a generous tuition stipend by a church member of Valdosta’s Forrest Street Methodist Church. Burrell chose to go to Asbury College, in Wilmore, Kentucky, because as Burrell put it: “The best preachers I’ve heard had gone to Asbury”. This decision set in motion Burrell’s future ministry and family life. At Asbury, he met another student, Phyllis Diehl from New Stanton, Pennsylvania, and they became college sweethearts. Phyllis was one year ahead of Burrell, and when she graduated, her teaching degree took her to Cuba where she patiently waited for Burrell to finish his studies at Asbury. Burrell and Phyllis were wed in Phyllis’s hometown of New Stanton, Pennsylvania, on August 5th, 1955, and moved to Atlanta, Georgia where Burrell began his studies for the ministry at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology.
Following ordination as a United Methodist pastor in 1959, Burrell’s appointment took the family to south Georgia, where he served four small churches simultaneously. Just over a year later, the vocational call to be missionaries was answered with an appointment by the Board of Missions to send Burrell and his family to Brazil, where they served from 1961 to 1971. During that time, they helped to establish Methodist congregations in rural areas of southern Brazil. Burrell served as pastor, seminary professor, hospital chaplain, and president of a large Christian school. The energetic and far-ranging work he and Phyllis did transcended borders, and their deep compassion for the people they encountered shaped their ministry for decades to come.
Upon returning to the United States, Burrell continued his pastoral work in various churches. Known for his creativity, leadership, and spunky spirit, he helped guide countless individuals in their spiritual journeys and inspired several generations of young people to pursue careers in ministry.
Burrell’s deep love of learning, and drive for professional growth led him to complete a doctorate in pastoral counseling at Emory University in 1976. He went on to serve in that capacity in The North Georgia Conference of The United Methodist Church.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Burrell was passionate about organic gardening, especially growing tomatoes, learning from videos, and offering frequent unsolicited, but really good advice. These passions would complement his love for reading and for learning. Burrell was always present, always willing to share a hug.
Learning, mentoring and serving continued to be themes in Burrell’s life. In 1977 he moved into academia as a founding professor at Oral Roberts University School of Theology in Tulsa, Oklahoma. While working in Tulsa, Burrell and Phyllis also started three new churches.
In 1985, after nine years in Tulsa, Burrell and Phyllis moved back to Georgia where Burrell served as a pastoral counselor at Roswell United Methodist Church.
In 1992, another professional opportunity brought Burrell and Phyllis back to the town where they had met in Kentucky. Burrell served as professor of pastoral care and counseling in the Asbury Theological Seminary from 1992 to 2006, first in Wilmore, then as a founding faculty member of the campus in Orlando, Florida.
His long career as a minister, counselor and teacher inspired Burrell to share his knowledge and experience through writing, culminating in the publication of two books, titled “Narrative Pastoral Counseling” and “Seasons of Life.”
Retirement in 2007 brought Burrell and Phyllis to Atlanta for another ten years, until their move to Wilmore in 2017 brought their dating and married life full circle. After a beautiful marriage of 64 years, Phyllis died peacefully at Wesley Village Retirement Community on March 8th, 2020. Burrell and Phyllis are now buried side by side at the Wilmore Cemetery, less than half a mile from where they met in 1952.
Burrell will be greatly missed by friends and family, including his children Randy (Billie), Ruth (Bob), Walter (Becky), Susana (Ray), and Paul (Susan), numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as many other members of the extended family. Burrell was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters and four brothers. He is survived by one sister and two brothers.
Fred Russell Gardner (Skipper), M.Div. ’71, aged 80, was born November 26, 1945, in Indianapolis, Indiana, in the Methodist Hospital to the late Maxine Gayle Zike and Frederick Charles Gardner. He was the eldest of four children – Brothers Gary-deceased (Barbara), Michael (Linda) and sister Debbie Gardner Anderson (Bill).
The Gardner family lived in Indiana until 1956 when they moved to St. Petersburg, Florida. His maternal Grandparents, Carl Russell & Ada Mae Mendell Zike, also moved to the area and spent a lot of time with the children. His paternal grandparents were the late Charles Edward & Ellen Wilson Wright Gardner
Fred and his siblings went to Dixie Hollins High School in St Petersburg, FL, where they all played in the band with Director Mr. Drum.
Fred graduated High School in 1964 and was encouraged by his pastor, Rev. Wilber P. Crowder at St. Mark’s United Methodist Church, to go to Asbury College (now University) in Wilmore, KY. He enjoyed being on the Tumbling Team, riding his unicycle, working in the audio/visual department, working sound and lighting for the Easter Pageant in Hughes Auditorium and participating in the Ministerial Association.
In 1965, he met his future wife, Mary Ellen Meier when returning from Christmas break in Florida. Mary Ellen graduated from Asbury in 1967 (Titan Class), they were married on September 1, 1967, and moved to Danville, KY, for four years. Fred graduated in 1968 (Sentinel Class) with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy and Religion. He then went to Asbury Theological Seminary for 3 years and graduated in 1971 with a Master of Divinity Degree.
Appointments in 40 years of active Ministry:
• Orlando, Goss Memorial, 1971;
• Orlando, Pine Castle, Assoc., 1972;
• Jacksonville, Arlington, Assoc., 1973;
• Tampa, Branscomb Memorial, 1974;
• Sanford, Grace, 10-15-76;
• Cross City & Old Town, 1980;
• St. Petersburg, Trinity, 1984;
• Melbourne, First, Assoc., 1990;
• Lake Worth, Calvary, 1991;
• Belleview, First, 10-1-94;
• Okeechobee, First, 2001;
• St Petersburg, St Luke’s, 2003;
• Sun City Center, 2005;
• Retired, 2009
During these years he also worked as stage manager and security for the Florida Annual Conference for 17 years and made sure the Ministry for the Deaf had what they needed to be seen while they interpreted the Conference. He was one of the first persons to type closed captioning during the Conference before it was done automatically.
At four of his appointments, he started Chaplaincy programs in the local Police Departments. In Tampa, he was treasurer of the Ministerial Association that started Meals on Wheels of Tampa.
The whole family has attended Taylor County Camp Meeting in Butler, GA where Fred did the sound, video, and recorded the services and Bible Studies for over 45 years. He also worked on their website to keep it current.
After retirement, Fred traveled with GNTV team (Macon, GA) to set up and run audio/video around the country at Christian events; was the technology minister at Anona UMC, Largo, FL; worked security for the 2012 General Conference held in Tampa, FL; and in 2013 participated by driving a support van for the Equip Relay for a mission trip to Guatemala (he drove on the US leg of the trip from Atlanta to the Mexican border).
Since the 1980s Fred and Mary Ellen hosted groups to the Holy Land. Fred had gone to the Holy Land 17 times and was always eager to return. In 1993, they took their daughter, Becca, with them as her high school Senior Trip. That trip included an extension to Egypt and a cruise on the Nile River.
In 2002, Mary Ellen started working at Jabil IT department in St Petersburg, and they bought their first house in Largo having lived in parsonages throughout Fred’s ministry. They lived there for 12 years until moving to Regency Oaks in Clearwater, FL, a Continuous Care Independent Living Community, in December of 2014 where he helped with audio/visual and was chaplain to the Regency Oaks Veterans Association.
In 2013, Mary Ellen retired from Jabil and they were asked to provide Hospitality for Educational Opportunities (a Christian Travel Company) with whom they had traveled to the Holy Land, Greece, Jordan and Egypt. They went for 8 weeks to be the Hospitality Hosts at the Hotels used by EO in Tiberius. While there, they welcomed the EO tour groups who stayed in the hotels, helped them settle in, and assisted with any issues/needs. They were hosts for 5 years (a few months at a time) and enjoyed friendships in Jerusalem, Tiberias and Bethlehem. In 2018, they were able to travel with the group that included their son, Russell, and friends from their church and Taylor County Camp Meeting. They were able to stay with the group for 3 days while they were in Nazareth. They also had the opportunity to be EO Hosts for two cruises in the Caribbean.
While in the Holy Land in 2015, Fred had an unexplained rash, and upon returning home in June, he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. He had two remissions in the 9 ½ years that he fought it through chemo, stem cell transplant at Moffitt, biologic, immunotherapy, radiation and chemo again, causing injury to his heart and pancreas.
He was in Hospice in July, 2024, and suddenly, he said God told him to get up and walk, and he did! God blessed us with over 6 weeks of amazing “bonus” time with him as he went to the fitness center daily, drove and enjoyed his life. Fred and Mary Ellen celebrated their 57th Wedding anniversary and his 79th birthday during that time.
That October, he became very weak, and by December, he knew he wasn’t going to get better and looked forward to seeing His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. At 6:00 pm on New Year’s Eve, 2024, he was completely healed and went to be with the Savior he so faithfully served. On his final evening, he passed peacefully in his own bed with Mary Ellen by his side. We’re grateful that through it all, he was never in any pain.
He was so proud of his son Russell Gardner, daughter Rebecca Groombridge (Kirk) and grandsons: Ryan Gardner (Tampa), Kaiden and Kaleb Groombridge (Chatham, Ontario, Canada) and prayed that they would follow Jesus and live for him all their lives.
He loved Jesus, treasured his family, and was always a part of whatever was going on. He was always ministering to others. Many would say that he was the most encouraging, sweetest, helpful, selfless and compassionate man they have ever known, and everyone who knew him is blessed to have called him Husband, Dad, Brother, Papa, Pastor and Friend.
Philippians 4:8 was one of his favorite scriptures: “Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Rudolph “Rudy” Heintzelman, M.A. in Christian Education ’75, aged 77, the fifth of six boys, grew up in a large Christian family in Mount Pleasant Mills, Pennsylvania, to Harry and Irene Heintzelman. He accepted Christ at an early age during a revival service in his local church. His faith remained stagnant until he moved away from home.
After graduating from Middleburg High School in 1965, Rudy worked in masonry construction then joined the Air Force. During four years in the military, his faith grew, and God became Lord of his life. During his service as an air traffic/radar controller, Rudy dreamed of becoming a pilot. To make this dream a reality, he needed a college degree. He attended Asbury University in Kentucky, but once there, sensed God calling him into full-time Christian service. He received a bachelor’s degree in Christian Education in 1973 and then a master’s in Christian Education from Asbury Theological Seminary in 1975.
He married Janet Savill, the love of his life, on August 21, 1971, in Wilmore, Kentucky. After seminary, Rudy and Janet moved to Crown Point, Indiana, to begin his ministry. They later moved to Myrtle Grove Methodist in Pensacola, Florida, then to Frazer Methodist in Montgomery, Alabama, and finally to First Methodist in Dothan, Alabama. He retired from being on a church staff in 2017, but he never retired from ministry.
Over the years, Rudy served in several church leadership roles. His passion in ministry was “to reach the world for Christ. There is nothing more fulfilling than watching a church develop from an inward focus to an external focus. My second passion is to see individuals find fulfillment in discovering their call to serve Christ.”
Believing missions was what God called Christians to do, Rudy became an OMS Board of Trustee member in 1991. OMS highly respected Rudy for his dedication to missions and its missionaries and staff around the world. He faithfully served on several committees over the next 33 years.
Rudy joined the Mercy, Inc. board in 2007. Mercy endeavors to change lives caught in the cycle of physical, spiritual, and relational poverty. This is done through acts of compassion and by presenting the Gospel.
In addition to the above boards, Rudy served on the boards for Wiregrass Hope here in Dothan, and the Asbury Seminary Foundation, helping with tuition for future pastors to receive a solid, Biblical education so they can return to our area to grow Biblically-sound churches with little to no debt. He LOVED helping those boards grow.
During his retirement years, Rudy filled his time continuing to serve on boards for OMS, Mercy, Wiregrass Hope, and Asbury Seminary Foundation, visiting his daughters, spending time with grandkids, using his chainsaw, walking trails with Janet, taking time to go to family reunions, and traveling all over the world.
Rudy is survived by his wife of fifty-three years, Janet; daughter, Carmen (Steve), grandsons Mitch and Eric; and daughter, Jill (Josh), and grandson William.
We rejoice that heaven welcomed Rudy with, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Reverend Dr. Llewellyn Cartwright Johnston, B.Div. ’63, D.Min. ’85, aged 88, known affectionately as “Buddy” or “L.C.” by many, passed away peacefully on January 14th, 2025 in Round Rock, Texas. A devoted husband, father, and faithful servant of the Lord, Buddy dedicated his life to ministry and touched countless lives with his unwavering faith, kindness, and love of storytelling.
Buddy was born at midnight on May 30th, 1936, in the quiet fishing village of Port Isabel, Texas, to L.C. and Corinne Johnston. Growing up across the street from the First United Methodist Church and near the town’s historic 1852 lighthouse, Buddy’s youth was steeped in the charm of this coastal community. He cherished his childhood memories, often recounting stories of riding his horse Dolly and playing with his dog Admiral. Whether it was his father working at the oil refinery or adventures with friends riding horses across South Texas on their horses and going across the bay to the Island, Buddy’s love for Port Isabel shone through in his many anecdotes in his sermons.
It was in this small town that Buddy first came to know the Lord and committed himself to a lifetime of ministry. As the story goes, young Buddy’s lively antics during church services led his mother to accompany him to ensure good behavior—a humorous beginning to what would become a deep and enduring relationship with The Methodist Church.
Buddy began his college journey at Texas A&M University but soon transferred to Lon Morris College in Jacksonville, Texas, to pursue ministry. After a dormitory fire, his path led him to Sam Houston State University, where he met the love of his life, Evelyn, at the Wesley Foundation. Evelyn was leading a Bible study, and their shared faith blossomed into a lifelong partnership. The two were married on January 26, 1959, in Rosehill, Texas.
Buddy began preaching while still in college, serving small churches in the area. After graduating, he and Evelyn moved to Wilmore, Kentucky, where Buddy attended Asbury Theological Seminary, earning his degree in 1963 and his Doctorate of Ministry in 1985. His ministry officially began in Billings, Montana, but in 1964, Buddy and Evelyn returned to South Texas, where he served in the Southwest Texas Conference for over 60 years. His appointments included churches in Lyford, Donna, Burnet, Beeville, Harlingen, San Antonio, Alice, and Highland Lakes.
Throughout his ministry, Buddy oversaw numerous building projects, from constructing a new outhouse for a rural Kentucky church during seminary to building the Lyford parsonage, two family life centers and a new church facility in Burnet, Texas. However, Buddy’s greatest passion was always serving the spiritual needs of his congregations. He organized and led countless revivals, often inviting missionaries to enrich the worship experience. Buddy also started mid-week youth and children activities in many of his churches, believing children were the future of the church.
Buddy’s love for ministry was matched only by his love for his family and travel. With Evelyn by his side, he explored the United States and journeyed across South America, Europe, Africa, Russia, Australia, and the Middle East. He frequently traveled to Mexico and Guatemala to serve alongside his missionary friends, sharing his faith with communities in need.
An avid reader, Buddy read his Bible daily and had a deep appreciation for history. Above all, he cherished his family and his church family. His 65-year marriage to Evelyn was a testament to unwavering love and commitment.
Buddy is survived by his beloved wife, Evelyn May Johnston; his children, David Cartwright Johnston and wife Laurie of Houston, Texas, Stephen Wesley Johnston of Brownsville, Texas, and Elizabeth Ann Presley and husband Matthew of Austin, Texas; his sister, Betty Jo Thrash; brother-in-law, Arthur Anderson; sister-in-law, Iris Schlechte; and brother-in-law, J. Leroy Schlechte and wife Joyce. He is also survived by many loving nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.C. Johnston Sr., and his sisters, Mary Lou Anderson and Olive J. Neuse (“Ollie”).
Thomas Rodney Mark McCormick, M.Div. ’94, aged 66, known affectionately as Tom by friends and Poppy by his grandbaby, passed away on December 28, 2024, at his home in Advance, Indiana. Born on March 3, 1958, in Crawfordsville, Indiana, Tom lived a life dedicated to his faith, family, and community.
A devoted husband to Nita McCormick since 1986, Tom cherished nearly 40 years of marriage filled with love and shared adventures, including a memorable trip to Israel, where they renewed their wedding vows. He was a proud father to his son, Matthew McCormick, and daughter-in-law, Jody McCormick. He was a doting grandfather to his granddaughter, Penelope McCormick. Tom is also survived by his brothers, Mike McCormick (married to Nancy), Tim McCormick (married to Cindy), and Laine Metsker (married to Sherry), who will remember him fondly. Predeceased by his mother, Jessie McCormick-Metsker-Grimes; father, Ralph McCormick; stepfathers, Bill Metsker and Burley Grimes; and brother, Pat McCormick.
Tom’s academic journey began at Ball State University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Theater and Communications in 1982, followed by a Master in Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary in 1994. His passion for learning and teaching was evident in his roles as a beloved pastor, mentor, and brother in Christ. He touched the lives of many through ministries such as Kairos Prison Ministry, Walk to Emmaus, and the Fellowship of Christian Magicians. Yet, he also made deep connections, sharing his faith with others through personal ministries in his local community. His unwavering commitment to sharing the light of God was a guiding force in his life that carried him through to the end.
Known for his artistic talents, Tom created hundreds of novelties, showcasing his skills in multimedia technologies. His creativity was matched only by his studious nature in the Bible, as he continually sought to understand and share biblical truths. Tom’s enthusiasm for life extended to his favorite TV series, “The Chosen,” which he eagerly shared with others, even leading spontaneous Bible studies in theaters.
Tom’s legacy and proudest accomplishment was receiving his mother’s faith in Jesus Christ and passing it onto his son. He will be remembered for his significant contributions to his community, his leadership in spiritual growth, and his steadfast faith in his Lord, Jesus Christ.
Rev. David S. Payne, M.Div. ’78, aged 90, who loved sharing the message of salvation to everyone he met, went to meet his Lord and Savior on Saturday, December 7, 2024, in Pensacola, FL.
David was born in Stowe Township, PA on April 3, 1934, to Seth and Reta (Over) Payne. He went to school in Coropolis, PA, graduating with the class of 1952 from Coropolis High School. He worked for the local grocer and drove taxis for his father’s Taxi business before joining the Navy. During basic training in Willow Grove, PA, he completed the prescribed course to enter the Pre-Flight program at NAS in Pensacola, FL.
While stationed at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, FL, he qualified as a carrier pilot on the USS Antietam. He also met and married the love of his life, Nancy J. (Worsnop) Payne, while stationed at NAS. They were married at Sacred Heart Church on July 18, 1959, and celebrated 65 years of marriage on July 18, 2024. After leaving the Navy, David graduated from Robert Morris College with his accounting degree and obtained his CPA certification in the state of Pennsylvania. He worked for several accounting firms in Pennsylvania and Florida before pursuing his Ministerial degree from the Nazarene Bible College in Colorado Springs, CO and Mid-America Nazarene University in Olathe, KS. He received his Master of Divinity degree at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, KY. He was ordained in the Church of the Nazarene on July 12, 1971, in Denver, CO. Rev. Payne pastored churches in Kentucky, Colorado, Alabama and Florida before retiring in 2005 at the age of 71. He also served in jail ministries in Kentucky, Alabama and Florida during his ministry. After retirement, he continued to share the gospel and the message of salvation; preaching his last sermon on January 14, 2024, at the First United Methodist Church in Pace, FL at the age of 89. He was witnessing to caregivers each day until his death.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Seth and Reta Payne (Pennsylvania); his brother, Harry Payne (New Jersey); his sisters, Nancy Meadows (Colorado), Judy Horn, Bernice Payne, and Janet Payne (Pennsylvania) and a grandson Brandon Van Pelt (Kansas).
He is survived by his wife, Nancy J. (Worsnop) Payne; 3 children, David S. Payne, II (Donna) of Ft. Worth, TX, Cynthia E. Van Pelt (Kevin) of Benton, TN, and Donald J. Payne of Pace, FL. He has 7 grandchildren: David S. Payne, III, Jeremy A. Payne, K. Joshua Van Pelt, Jordan K. Van Pelt, Jenai E. Johnson and Donald J. Payne, II and 9 great grandchildren, Brandon Payne, Joshua Payne, Jensen Payne, Mikel Van Pelt, Braylan Van Pelt, Ashton Van Pelt, Graham Johnson, Molly-Anne Johnson and Tate Johnson.
Preceded in death by: Parents-William and Gertrude Petersen; Siblings- Vardian Petersen James, Keith Petersen; Son- Jack Petersen; Grandchild-Kendall Roberts
Survived by: Wife-Janice Petersen, of Havana FL; Children: Daughter-Marsha (Dave) Huntley, of Tallahassee, FL, Son- Craig (Katy) Petersen, of Chattahoochee, FL; Grandchildren: Sheldon Roberts of Woodville, FL, A. Huntley of Tallahassee, FL, Amber (Wayne) Lancaster of Tallahassee, FL, Seth Petersen of Chattahoochee, FL, Manny Wall of Cullowhee, NC; Great-Grandchildren: Layla Roberts of Port St. Lucie, FL, Alec Kite of Tallahassee, FL, Marshall Lancaster of Tallahassee, FL; Brothers: Roger (Della) Petersen of Boca Raton, FL, Tracy (Dana) Petersen Of Waco, TX, Zoe Petersen Steinhaus of Wisconsin.
George A. Rinehart, B.Div. ’60, aged 90, passed away peacefully Thursday, December 12, 2024 at Brentwood Health Care Center after a brief period of declining health.
Maxine, his loving wife of over 63 years, preceded him in death in January 2023. George was born September 6, 1934, in Greenville Township, Mercer County, Pennsylvania to the late John “Paul” and Margaret (Vesper) Rinehart. After graduating from Collinwood HS in Cleveland, Ohio in 1953, he began his studies at Asbury College in Wilmore, Kentucky. There he received a Bachelor of Arts with a Major in History and a Minor in Secondary Education in 1957. He met his wife Maxine in College, and they were married after her graduation in June 1959. George graduated from Asbury Seminary in 1960 and was accepted as a minister for The United Methodist Church. George has been a resident of Rootstown for over 50 years.
George began his ministry career in 1960 in Clinton County, Ohio where he served as a full-time circuit preacher for five United Methodist churches in the heart of farm country. He managed ministering to each church on rotating Sunday services along with his pastoral duties until 1964 when he moved with his wife and family to Rootstown, Ohio. George spent over two decades as a full-time fifth grade teacher for Rootstown Elementary school. He completed a Master of Education at the University of Akron in 1969. He was an active Boy Scouts leader for several years for both his sons and assisted with the Girl Scouts for his daughter. George spent many a weekend camping with his Scouts and sharing his love of the outdoors. He was an avid reader of western novels and non-fiction history. He enjoyed tinkering in the garage and repaired countless lawnmowers and small engines for friends and neighbors.
He was a member of the Rootstown United Methodist Church for 21 years until joining the founding of Community Bible Church. He actively served as Assistant Pastor for many years at Community Bible Church; he thoroughly enjoyed to help others in their time of need and to inspire others through the Word of God.
George is preceded in death by his parents, his wife and his grandson Zachary Rinehart. Survivors include brothers Ron (Linda) Rinehart & Don (Brenda) Rinehart; Sons John & Philip Rinehart, Daughter Ruth (Denny) Pickens; 5 grandchildren, Michael Pickens, Heather{(Joe) Svidron} Pickens, Ashleigh Pickens, Madison Rinehart & Ethan Rinehart; 3 great- grandchildren, Adaline, Lauren and Emily Svidron.
Charles Eugene “Gene” Roe, aged 67, passed away peacefully in the loving care of his family on December 3, 2024, in San Antonio, TX. Born on October 14, 1957, in Glen Cove, NY, he is survived by his wife Tami, daughter Catherine, her husband Jake, their son Carter, and daughter Melanie and her boyfriend Hunter. He is preceded in death by his mother, Evelyn Dickson Roe, his father Charles Edward Roe, and his sister, Helen Jackson.
Gene is a graduate of Conroe High School and proud alumnus of Texas State University where he played golf and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration degree. He furthered his education at The American College of Financial Services, obtaining a Master of Science in Financial Services. Gene was a managing partner and business owner of Planto Roe Financial Services and later the founder and proprietor of Wesley Wealth Management, a firm based on Gene’s financial expertise and mission of service to others through philanthropic financial planning. His expertise and dedication to his clients’ needs were recognized through his attainment of several prestigious designations, including Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC), Chartered Advisor in Philanthropy (CAP), and Chartered Leadership Fellow (CLF), and Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU).
Gene’s faith was a cornerstone of his life, and he was passionate about serving in local ministries. Faithful involvement in the Emmaus community was Gene’s catalyst to pursue ordination. He attended Asbury Theological Seminary and in 2018, he was ordained as United Methodist clergy, serving as a Deacon in the Rio Texas Conference. Gene was an active participant and clergy leader with Kairos Prison International Ministries, served as a board member of the First Tee of Greater San Antonio, and volunteered with various activities in the youth ministry at Coker Methodist Church. Gene always held particular reverence for John Wesley, whose work provided both a foundation for Gene’s spiritual life and subsequently the namesake for Wesley Wealth Management.
As the father of two daughters, Gene dedicated time to watching Melanie’s softball games and Catherine’s ballet recitals. He spent many nights after work teaching Melanie how to throw and pitch a softball (despite gaining many bruises) or work out math problems with Catherine. An avid golfer, Gene found joy and relaxation on the greens, a pastime he often shared with friends and loved ones. He also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family on Lake LBJ. He will be remembered for his timely sarcasm, great golf swing, devotion to the Texas State Bobcats, and Civil War historical knowledge.
Gene lived a full and generous life marked by dedication to the values and things he held dear: his family, faith, friends, clients, and service to his community. He leaves behind a legacy of love, leadership, and service that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. His spirit is carried on by his family, friends and colleagues.
Margret did well in school and left home at age 17 to attend what is now Aberdeen University, where she graduated with a degree in Primary Education. She landed her first teaching job in Toronto, Canada, travelling there by ship. From there she enjoyed her summers of travel to far flung places like New Zealand and Australia.
After some years, the call of Scotland became strong enough for Margret to return to her homeland to teach in a deprived coal mining community. Next, she accepted a position as a travelling Special Education teacher in her home county of Angus, moving into a draughty stone-built farm cottage at Inverkeillor. She soon made it cosy and warm with a blazing coal fire in the kitchen where she honed her baking and cooking skills. Her whole extended family and many friends looked forward to tasting her latest dishes.
Around this time she met and fell in love with her American sweetheart, a US Navy sailor stationed nearby. Julian Smith won her heart and they were married in her home by the parish minister on Christmas Day in 1978. Julian left the navy and finished a degree at Dundee University in German and Religious Studies, becoming a teacher at Montrose Academy. Their first son, Frank Wilson Smith, was born in 1980, followed by James Andrew Smith in 1982; two beautiful, rambunctious, wee bairns. Julian was accepted to complete his Master of Divinity at Asbury Seminary, Kentucky and the family of four emigrated to the USA, quickly settling into college life. Margret was a truly supportive wife and was loved by everyone she met. Her Scottish themed dinners were legendary amongst the international student population.
Margret’s husband was assigned to be pastor at a Methodist Church in Radford, Virginia, where she embraced her new role as a pastor’s wife and became a shining star in the community. Following that, the next move was to northern Minnesota, where Margret followed her pastor husband; right away she began creating a happy home base for her family. As a voracious reader, she was active in the Jane Austen Society, giving well-attended presentations.
Julian’s career took an interesting turn when he took the position of Catholic Chaplain at Pelican Bay State Penitentiary in Crescent City, California. By now both sons had left for college and Margret was able to care full-time for her mother-in-law in home hospice. She also volunteered at a thrift store, charming her customers with her smiles and unusual accent. Over the years Margret had explored the Catholic faith, eventually converting to Catholicism. This prompted some wonderful pilgrimages, first to Israel then to Poland and Italy. Wherever Margret lived she had a positive attitude and was a friend to anyone who needed help.
All too soon it was retirement time for the Smiths and they decided to move to Pittsford, New York so Margret could enjoy time with her only sister, who lived there. The girls had such fun together at yard sales, church events, coffee dates, and just enjoying a relaxed life. Margret wanted to escape the snow and find a pleasant climate to settle in. This time, she led the move to Aiken, South Carolina. The couple became active in St Mary’s Church, in Aiken, and made many wonderful friends there. Margret loved her life in her final years in Kalmia Landing, a retirement community in Aiken. Her home was always open to neighbors and she brought her culinary delights to many of the social events. She was very active in church groups, delving into the Bible and praying with and for others. It was her deep faith that carried her through the tragic illness that finally overtook her. Margret is deeply missed and her beautiful spirit will be forever cherished.
Benjamin Wade Wetherill, II, M.Div. ’08, aged 62, of Dallas Plantation, a well-known member of the greater Rangeley community, passed at his home late Monday afternoon on December 30th. He was born on the USAG base in Stuttgart, Germany, September 10, 1962, a son of Benjamin Alfred Wetherill and Mary Jane Gipson.His education included a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Arizona State University and a Master of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary.
He was married to Ana Kristan Rhinehart, January 9th, 1988, in West Point, NY.
He entered the U.S. Border Patrol on September 11th, 1988. Retired as Supervisor out of Sierra Vista, Arizona in 2019. He joined the United States Coast Guard Reserve in 1991, retiring as a Commander in 2014. He had a total of 30 years of service for the U.S. Military. He was currently serving the community as the Rangeley Fire Department Chaplain and had served as Chaplain for the United States Secret Service.
He enjoyed the sport of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, achieving a Black Belt, and went on to instruct. He was also a very active participant in the arts community including the Community Theater, Hand Bell Choir, and Community Chorus. He enjoyed Youth Ministries, especially through the church, introducing many youths to the joys of Christian Rock. He could be seen every Tuesday and Thursday at the local Farmer’s Market helping his wife.
He is survived by his wife Ana Kristan Rhinehart-Wetherill, and daughters Brittany Jessica Wetherill, Aurora Bennette Wetherill (and fiancé, Karl Okey Morton III), and Chelsea-Dagmar Tanya Benites (and husband Orlando Josue Benites). His stepmother Linda Hodge Wetherill. His sisters Andrea Dionne Rittschof (and husband Duncan Alexander Rittschof), and Margaret Danielle Beatty (and husband John Mark Beatty). Predeceased by father, Benjamin Alfred Wetherill, and mother, Mary Jane Gipson.
Ben was a great friend during our journey to achieve our M.Div. I will always cherish our Januarys together in Wilmore and one year in Orlando.
God Bless,
Scott,
Scott L. Willis
M.Div. 2008