In this series
Some extraordinary Christians died this year: artists, theologians, and leaders who made a difference through their day-in, day-out faithfulness.
But as we remember them at the end of the year, we should also remember the ways in which they weren’t extraordinary, but simply faithful.
“I am not an evangelical stuntman,” Brother Andrew said. “I am just an ordinary guy. What I did, anyone can do.”
Here are the obituaries of 10 men and women who followed their calling, loved Jesus, and responded to the needs in front of them. They trusted God, and their lives and testimonies can remind us that we can too.
Died: Brother Andrew, Who Smuggled Bibles into Communist Countries
Founder of Open Doors said he wasn’t an “evangelical stuntman” but a faithful Christian following the leading of the Spirit.
Died: Frederick Buechner, Popular Christian ‘Writer’s Writer’ and ‘Minister’s Minister’
Buechner died peacefully in his sleep on Monday at age 96, according to his family.
Died: Fred Carter, Little-Known Black Artist Behind Chick Tracts
“Shy” creator drew stories of sin and salvation seen by millions.
Died: Queen Elizabeth II, British Monarch Who Put Her Trust in God
In her seven-decade reign, she spoke regularly of the importance of her personal faith.
Died: Gordon Fee, Who Taught Evangelicals to Read the Bible ‘For All Its Worth’
A New Testament “scholar on fire,” he believed Scripture was an encounter with God.
Died: Michael Gerson, Speechwriter Who Crafted Faith-Inspired Language for George W. Bush
The one-time theology student believed politics should have “heroic ambition,” and speeches should be written, on occasion, for the angels.
Died: Kees de Kort, Beloved Bible Artist
The Dutch illustrator’s bold and simple work shaped “the biblical cosmos of images” for millions.
Died: Gospel Singer LaShun Pace, Who Praised God from 1970s Revivals to 2020s TikTok
She sang through betrayal, divorce, and death.
Died: Ron Sider, Evangelical Who Pushed for Social Action
Author of “Rich Christians in an Age of Hunger” argued poverty was a moral issue.
Died: George O. Wood, Who Led the Assemblies of God into Growth
As general superintendent, he brought women and minorities into leadership, added “compassion” to the denomination’s constitution, and set ambitious goals for church planting.
Check out the rest of our 2022 year-end lists here.
