Dr. Myron S. Augsburger

Dr. Myron S. Augsburger, a renowned Mennonite pastor, theologian, author, and higher education leader, passed away peacefully at the age of 97. Recognized nationally for his passion for Christ-centered peacemaking, global evangelism, and Anabaptist theology, Dr. Augsburger left an indelible mark on the church and Christian higher education across the globe.

Born on August 20, 1929, in Elida, Ohio, Myron was one of six children born to Clarence and Estella Augsburger. He grew up grounded in faith and a deep sense of Christian community. On November 28, 1950, he married the love of his life, Esther L. Kniss, embarking together on a vibrant partnership in ministry and art that spanned over seven decades.

Dr. Augsburger pursued an extensive academic path, earning degrees from Eastern Mennonite College (A.B., Th.B.), Goshen Biblical Seminary (M.Div.), and Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond, Virginia (Th.M., Th.D./Ph.D.). He also conducted postgraduate studies at George Washington University, the University of Michigan, the University of Basel, Oxford University, and Princeton Theological Seminary.

From his early days of ministry at Tuttle Avenue Mennonite Church in Sarasota, Florida, to conducting city-wide crusades with Christian Layman’s Tent Evangelism and InterChurch, Inc., Dr. Augsburger was a compelling and inspiring evangelist. In 1969, Time magazine named him one of the five most influential "preachers of an active gospel" in America.

In 1965, at the age of 35, Dr. Augsburger was named the fifth president of Eastern Mennonite College (now Eastern Mennonite University) in Harrisonburg, Virginia—becoming the youngest president in the institution's history. During his 15-year tenure (1965–1980), he transformed the institution into a nationally recognized liberal arts college and seminary. Under his guidance, EMU developed landmark facilities including the Suter Science Center and Hartzler Library, introduced an innovative interdisciplinary core curriculum, and expanded arts, athletics, and international study programs. He later served as president of the Christian College Coalition (now the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities - CCCU), and planted Washington Community Fellowship in Washington, D.C. Myron was one of the founding pastors of Park View Mennonite Church and Community Mennonite Church of Harrisonburg, Va. He authored over 20 books on Christian theology, discipleship, peace, and church history.

Myron was a man of many talents and interests, which included his eloquent oratory skills, his capacity to memorize poems and scripture, raising swans, baking pies, singing, and planting trees. He was long a member of Rotary Club of Harrisonburg.

Dr. Augsburger is survived by his beloved wife, Esther L. Augsburger; his children, John Myron Augsburger (wife Beverly Stauffer) and Marcia Louise Augsburger (husband Steve Goff) his granddaughters, Lara Lyko (husband Jamie and sons Cashel and Hal) and Caitlin White (husband Brian Hamilton and daughter Clare); his sister, Anna Mary Good; his many nephews and nieces, and a vast global community of former students, colleagues, and brothers and sisters in Christ.
He was preceded in death by his son, Michael David Augsburger; his parents, Clarence and Estella; and his brothers, Fred, Donald, Daniel, and David Augsburger.

Memorial service details to be announced at a later date.

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." — 2 Timothy 4:7

Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.mcmullenfh.com.

McMullen Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.