Anderson University mourns the recent passing of Dr. Gilbert Stafford, professor emeritus of Theology and former director of the Doctor of Ministry program within the School of Theology. Dr. Stafford passed away on Sunday, March 30, following an extended struggle with cancer. He retired at the end of the 2006-07 academic year after 31 years of service.
“We had in Dr. Stafford a great gift of God that has touched this community and so much of the Christian world,” said Dr. James Edwards, president of Anderson University. “His devotion to God was expressed so effectively in his teaching, writing and ministry. His love for brothers and sisters in the church and faith community is a living witness that will continue to speak to us in powerful ways. We will miss this gifted and faithful servant.”
After graduating from Anderson in 1961 with a degree in sociology and Christian education, he went on to pursue seminary for two years in Anderson and graduated from Andover Newton Theological School in Newton, Mass., in 1964. Dr. Stafford received his doctorate in theology at Boston University in 1973. In 1976, Dr. Stafford was hired as a professor in the seminary. Since then he served as associate dean, dean of the chapel, professor of Christian theology, and the director of the Doctorate of Ministries program.
Watch special video of Dr. Stafford reflecting on his years of service at AU upon retirement.
Dr. Stafford served as Speaker-Director of CBH: Christians Broadcasting Hope (formerly, Christian Brotherhood Hour) from 1986-1996. CBH is the international radio ministry of the Church of God (Anderson, Indiana).
He is the author of many books, articles, and manuals. Also he has contributed chapters in books edited by others. His books include Vision for the Church of God at the Crossroads (2002), Church of God at the Crossroads (2000), Theology for Disciples (1996), The Life of Salvation (1979), and Living as Redeemed People (1976). He was co-editor and contributor to Ancient Faith and American-Born Churches (2006), and author of “Faith Development in a Postmodern World,” a chapter in Next Steps to Ministry (2007).
Dr. Stafford and his wife, Darlene, have four married children and two twin grandchildren.
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