Thomas Neufer Emswiler

Rev. Thomas Neufer Emswiler (81) of Champaign died on February 21, 2023 at Carle Foundation Hospital in Urbana, IL, surrounded by his loving family.

Tom was born Thomas Clair Emswiler Jr. on April 18, 1941 in Overland Park, KS, to Thomas Clair Emswiler Sr. and Velva Allmand Emswiler. He graduated from Emporia Senior High School in 1959 and received a B.A. from Emporia State University before graduating from Perkins School of Theology in Dallas. He received an M.A. in a joint program between Northwestern and Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, then began serving at a United Methodist Church in Lawrence, KS.

Tom met Sharon Neufer at Garrett and they married on August 18, 1968. They both chose the last name “Neufer Emswiler” in recognition of their equality in marriage. They served as ministers at Trinity UMC and Haskell Indian Institute in Lawrence, First UMC in Wichita, First UMC in Rock Island, IL, and Wesley UMC in Urbana, and at Wesley Foundation campus ministries at ISU and UIUC. Tom also served at Rochester UMC in Rochester, IL. They retired on the same day in 2003.

Tom wrote many books and also co-wrote books on inclusivity in worship with Sharon. He was a lifelong lover of classical music and loved playing the piano. Tom was a kind and selfless husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He had a gentle smile and a playful spirit.

Tom is survived by his wife of 54 years (Sharon), son Evan (Makiko), and daughter Elaine (Jacob Benjamin) and his grandchildren Elliot and Mia, all of whom live in Champaign. Tom is also survived by his sister Marbeth Grouling (Tom) (Fishers, IN). Tom was preceded in death by his parents and brother John.

A memorial service and celebration of Tom’s life will be held at a later date.

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