Wayne Granberry Boulton, 77, died at home of pancreatic cancer on Feb 1, 2019, in Indianapolis, IN.
Wayne was a devoted and beloved husband, father, teacher and friend, always putting others at ease with warmth and good humor. He loved the fierce, wide-open landscapes of Scotland and Montana; walking and hiking in solitude; swimming the sparkling lakes of New Hampshire; studying Scripture; preaching with dynamism; playing basketball, ping-pong, and drums; singing in harmony; experiencing life in other countries; and discussing just about anything, from theology to politics. He had an easy laugh, a twinkle in his eye, and a deep passion for justice, kindness, and humility.
He was born in Gaffney, South Carolina, the son of the late Wayne Kelly Boulton and Mary Brinson Granberry Boulton. Raised in Ardsley, New York, he graduated from Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, and then attended two schools in Chicago, Illinois: Northwestern University Business School and McCormick Theological Seminary, where he graduated with a Master of Divinity. He later received a Doctor of Philosophy from Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, writing his dissertation on the theologian Reinhold Niebuhr.
In the spring of 1966, Wayne married Vicki Marcia Rubin, having earlier caught her eye – and she, his – when his college choir performed at her high school. As just the first of their many adventures to come, Wayne and Vicki worked in Bangkok, Thailand from 1967-69 as part of the Frontier Intern Program of the Presbyterian Church, building bridges between United Nations agencies and the Church of Christ in Thailand, a Presbyterian partner.
Wayne taught for 20 years in the religion department at Hope College in Holland, Michigan, specializing in Christian ethics. He taught exceptionally popular courses – most notably “Christian Love,” a seminar on sexual ethics. During his service at Hope, he received the school’s H.O.P.E. award (Hope’s Outstanding Professor-Educator) and served terms as religion department chair and faculty representative on the Board of Trustees. In 1979 he was visiting professor at the University of St. Andrews in St. Andrews, Scotland, beginning his lifelong love for that part of the world.
From 1992-97, Wayne served as president of the Presbyterian School of Christian Education in Richmond, Virginia, now part of Union Presbyterian Seminary. He went on to serve as pastor at several congregations in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and the United Church of Christ, including First Presbyterian Church, Annapolis, Maryland; Roland Park Presbyterian Church, Baltimore, Maryland; New Vernon Presbyterian Church, New Vernon, New Jersey; First Church in Charlestown (UCC), Boston, Massachusetts; and Hingham Congregational Church (UCC), Hingham, Massachusetts. His final years of ministry were at St. Timothy’s Memorial Chapel in Georgetown Lake, Montana.
Wayne is the author of several articles and two books: Is Legalism a Heresy? The Legacy of the Pharisees in Christian Ethics; and Out of Step: The Family, American Society, and the Christian Gospel. He is also coeditor of From Christ to the World: Introductory Readings in Christian Ethics. For the last several years, he has been at work on a book focusing on the Christian doctrine of election.
In recognition of his service as teacher, pastor and leader in theological education, Wayne was honored with the 2013 McCormick Theological Seminary’s Distinguished Alumnus Award.
One of Wayne’s signatures was to convene or join small study groups, ranging from a septet of longtime seminary friends to church Bible studies to book discussions. These circles of conversation epitomized his lifelong curiosity, his love of big ideas, and his gift for bringing people together. He died in the hometown of the writer Kurt Vonnegut, who once said, “the most daring thing is to create stable communities in which the terrible disease of loneliness can be cured.” In ways large and small, in classrooms and churches and coffee shops and beyond, Wayne Granberry Boulton lived a lifetime daring to do just that.
Wayne is survived by his wife of 52 years, Vicki; by his sons and daughters-in-law, Matthew and Elizabeth Myer Boulton of Keene, New Hampshire, and Christopher and Libby Boulton of Tampa, Florida; by his four grandchildren, Jonah, Maggie, Hendrik, and Charlotte; and by his cousin Rev. Dr. James Richardson (Carol). He was predeceased by his cousins Robert Richardson and George Richardson (Kathy).
A Memorial service will be held at Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N. Meridian, Indianapolis, on Monday, March 18, 2019, with a Calling at 1:00pm; the memorial service at 2:00pm; and a reception with time for remembrances following the service. A graveside service will be held at New Vernon Presbyterian Church in New Vernon, New Jersey, on April 14, 2019 at 1:30 pm.
In lieu of flowers, gifts may be sent in Wayne’s honor to Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, Indiana, 46260; or to Presbyterian Church of New Vernon, 2 Lees Hill Rd, New Vernon, 07920; or to St. Timothy’s Memorial Chapel (at Georgetown Lake, MT), 218 8th St., Helena, MT 59601, or to St. Vincent Hospice, 8450 N. Payne Road, Suite 100, Indianapolis, 46268.
Gordon Stewart says
Words fail to express the depth of the loss to so many of us whose lives Wayne changed and sustained. But the obituary captures his heart, mind, and soul. Kay and my prayers are with you, Vicki, and with Matt, Chris, and all the Boulton family. Death is not one thing for everyone everywhere. The best of them come surrounded by family choruses! I can still hear the joyful singing that characterizes the family of Vicki and Wayne.
And draw us near
And bind us tight
All your children here
In their rags of light
In our rags of light
All dressed to kill
And end this night
— Leonard Cohen, “If It Be Your Will”
Grace and Peace
Rev Linda Knieriemen says
Vicki,
I believe I only met Wayne once, but as a “child of the manse” in New Vernon I feel a connection with you both. My father pastored there from 1955-1968 when we moved to St. Paul.
Mary Deenik is my good pal here in Holland and through her admiration for you both I have come to realize how much I have missed in not knowing Wayne better than geography has allowed.
I see there will be a graveside service in New Vernon. I learned to ski in that cemetery and spent many hours enjoying the quiet atmosphere afforded by its residents. I can smell the boxwood and sense its peace.
My heart is full for you as you grow accustomed to the absence of Wayne’s presence in your lives, and celebrate all that he brought you, the Church, and the world.
Peace and Light of God be with you.
Della Stanley-Green says
Matt, Liz and all the family:
Although I did not know Wayne well, our handful of short conversations were uplifting and encouraging, and thus memorable. In the realities of our world today, I hope that statement speaks the volumes I intend it to speak.
My prayers are with you as you navigate the hard, new reality of a world that will never be the same for you. May the love, care and prayers of those who accompany you, whether close at hand or from a distance, bring you strength, offer you peace and allow you to be in both grief and gratitude.
Blessings,
Della Stanley-Green
Scott says
He was my academic advisor at Hope and Vicki hired me to work at First Presbyterian (Holland) way before I was ready. Both Boultons believed in me. Wayne is one of my heroes.
Cathy Johnson Blackburn says
I am so sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. He was a huge influence on me as as Hope student in the late ’80’s, and it was extra special that I got to see the whole family at First Presbyterian Church in Holland. He made it possible for me to do my senior seminar as an independent study, when I needed to be with my parents, Doug & Margo Johnson, and my little brother David, as he was being treated for a brain tumor. He will always be one of my favorite professors!
My prayers are with you during this difficult time.
Blessings,
Cathy Johnson Blackburn
Jack Ridl says
Wayne, you damn rascal. I had on my so-called to do list to write to you, a message of gratitude, apology, love, and and what? So once again Ridl, as you always addressed me, committed yet another sin of omission. I even messed up that surprise party for ya at the Legion Hall. We’d spar. After you stood your ground, I would wobble home and wish I didn’t have to walk in uncertainty. You did the work that matters. You healed not with the easy way of hackneyed common ground but by bringing us together in difficulty. I missed your sparkle of a Christmas letter these last few years, how they put me with you in the gentle ambience of your office. I can’t fathom how you lived a life of such generous goodness. And I am so sorry that I didn’t say how much I love you, that you will be forever a permanent resident in my heart. To you, Vicki and family, I have no adequate words. I know only that you lovingly enriched Wayne’s days,a gift ineffable. Grief is an ambush. When it comes, may comfort follow.
With love, care, and gratitude
Namaste
Jack
Amy says
Wayne was one of my dad’s closest friends and someone who personally touched my life while I was at Hope. He and Vicki helped me feel like I had family when I came to Hope and it was so fitting that he spoke during my graduation in 1989. Vicki, you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers and I know dad was there to welcome him home. I’m sure they are telling jokes they think are hysterical and discussing theology or some kind.
Rob Pocock says
As well as wishing I could write as poignantly as Jack Ridl, I also wish I could have lived a life as well as Wayne Boulton: my professor, my First Presbyterian Church co-congregant, and ultimately my friend. Vicki, you and Wayne were a force to be reckoned with and you impacted my life in ways too numerous to count. The two of you challenged others to be their best, not by words, but by deeds. But let it not go unsaid that Wayne was a master with words, both oral and spoken. I remember sitting through his Christian Ethics class, listening to him guest preach at First Pres and breaking matzot at seder meals you graciously hosted in your home on Cherry Street. The two of you modeled for Cindy and me what it looked like to be a parent as we watched you raise Matt and Chris who undoubtedly are carrying on your legacy in ways that may you and Wayne so proud. And how honored I was to help plan and emcee that surprise party at Legion Hall. (Vicki, I’ll get together with Jack to toast Wayne and ask Jack to remind me how he messed up that party which I recall as being pretty spectacular!?!) Vicki, Matt, Chris: Cindy and I want to express our sorrow at your grief and pray for you God’s peace. The pain we feel at hearing this news is eased by the memories that envelope us as we recall a life well lived. Thank you for so generously sharing your spouse and father with those of us who needed him.
James Bertram Haugh says
Vicki,
I have normally or really have been at a loss for words about much of anything. I have been silent I have discovered the basis of the silence. I have participated in the funerals of my grandmothers 5 uncles and aunts Susan’s grandmother, mother and father. I have been with 6 folks in hospice. I have been present when my mother and Susan’s mother died.
These people were not chosen. I was just born into their presence
This is different Wayne and Vicki. I was not born into your family nor you in mine. We chose you. This is different.
I celebrate the difference. I celebrate the laughter, hope and the gratitude in memories.
My most significant remembrance is the walk around Holland where I believe Wayne was teaching at Hope College. I was in the middle of nowhere and possessed no vision of myself with me in it. Wayne said hopefully, “Jim you could teach.”
It was the beginning of confidence which has seldom if ever left me and the warm remembrance of that walk returned.
Wayne was a step earlier than teaching for me.
He convinced me there was a future in my life and I could join it. Teaching was an opportunity.
Having been called labeled and called stupid, incapable, etc. for the better part of 30 years having someone. Not related to me – who I Trusted expressing his belief that I could Envision and have a future was a big deal.
Having two learning differences dyslexia and the total inability to pronounce words that Others could easily say made Greek a barrier that I couldn’t get over.
Wayne was an affirmation.
Wayne’s words gave me the permission to claim my own dream. To find purpose and meaning.
I celebrate both of you.
Robert L. Hunter says
A beautifully composed summary of the life of SUCH a beautiful person! Thank you, Vicki, Matt and Chris, for your expression of Wayne’s spirit and legacy! I am so honored to have shared in his journey of exploration, if only for a few years. He will be sorely missed, but never forgotten!
“We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.”
– T. S. Eliot, “Little Gidding”
Kathy Winnett-Murray and Greg Murray says
You were our first neighbors who reached out to us as we embarked on the very beginning of what has become many treasured years as mid-westerners, “Hollanders”, and “Hope-ites”. Your family embraced our family from the other side of Cherry Street, and welcomed us to a new world of building community. The opportunity for, and rewards of, community-building and community-sustaining are what have kept us here so many years. Although we definitely do not keep up with you, Vicki, nor with Wayne, in leading the way, we remain inspired by your examples of reaching out and embracing all sorts of neighbors 🙂 ! We are holding you and your family in the Light.
Donna Triptow says
Dear Vicki and Family, I was so saddened to learn of Wayne’s death. The obituary is a beautiful description of a life well-lived and the thoughtful condolences are an affirmation of Wayne’s life’s impact. I still remember his sermon after his mother’s death. Also your son’s captivating participation at Wayne’s Roland Park Presbyterian Church installation ceremony. I hope your memories can bring you comfort; my deepest sympathies to all your family. Donna Triptow
Gary Camp says
With respect to many good profs during my time at Hope, Dr. Boulton’s Christian Ethics course (and the way he taught it) impacted me more than any other – throughout my life and to this very day. Indeed, this day reminds me of just how much he shaped my thinking – for which I am extremely grateful.
Vicki, I’m thinking of you in this time, and also remembering all you brought to our Admissions efforts!
Shalom…
Heidi Ropa says
Boulton Family,
I learned today from my Mom of Wayne’s passing. My heart feels so heavy for you all knowing the strength of your bonds and love. Friendship is a shelter of safety and he offered this to my Dad through so many years. Their friendship was a space where my Dad felt completely understood and accepted. That’s a rare gift for men. Our family holds cherished memories of football games in the background at Thanksgiving and jokes shared during board games. Wayne was my Professor, never judging my path, always welcoming and curious. Wayne was our Pastor, marrying Dave and I, 26 years ago. We hold all of the Boultons in our hearts in prayer. Love, Heidi and Dave Ropa
Dave Myers says
We at a place called Hope remember and celebrate Wayne as a great teacher and mentor, as an encourager of us all, and for the sparkle and wit that was so endearing. His leaving here was a loss for our community. But he (and Vicki) never left our hearts.
Gerald and Linda Jones says
Dear Vicki, Matt and Christopher and family. It is so hard to know where to start to celebrate Wayne. He and Vicki came into our lives at Hingham Congregational Church (Hingham MA) when we were in spiritual and emotional turmoil. We had just had a pastor, who had become so negative, leave, and were in the middle of a search. Wayne and Vicki came in with their love, their calming ways, and reminded us that we were not alone, and that our spiritual foundation was rock solid and could “take” many a blow. In particular Wayne joined a newly formed Men’s Spirituality Group, which was formed in large part by men trying to find both a spiritual foundation and do it as men trying also to become better men. Not an easy combination. But Wayne listened, nudged, affirmed, challenged, supported us; and just as “good” he grew too. Along the way we got to know Vicki and could tell why Wayne was such a “self actualized” person and minister. She was more than a good partner to Wayne, and thus to us at HCC. And in particular to Linda and me. We’ve kept in good touch since Wayne and Vicki moved to Indianapolis, spent a fun weekend on Martha’s Vineyard, and had a wonderful, long brunch here in Hingham in October. We picked right up where we left off. Vicki, we are so so with you. Sending prayers and love to you, you all. Linda and Gerald.
Dick and Margie Rhoads says
Dick and I were so sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. Our acquaintance began at St. Tim’s near Anaconda, Montana several years ago. He meant so much to us and our Christian Life there; we loved his sense of humor and our many discussions of life. He always shared his “cowboy boots” with us his first Sunday back for the summer at St. Tim’s. Blessings to you, Vicki, and your family. Love and God Bless, Dick and Margie Rhoads.
Thomas and Ann ewig says
Although I have already sent a message to Vicki I say that wayne left huge footsteps here at the First Presbyterian Church of New Jersey
I will be forever grateful for having known him and been able to call him friend.
He is one of a kind and will be missed by many
Bob Elder says
We had more walks and talks than can be counted. These were all as if we had never been seperated by the time or miles. I once told you that. You were the key to opening my lifes door. And as you aso said the key always seemed to fit. You are a brother and are missed.
Bob Elder says
We had more walks and talks than can be counted. These were all as if we had never been seperated by the time or miles. I once told you that you were the key to opening my lifes door. And as you aso said the key always seemed to fit. You are a brother and are missed.
Jennifer J. Monteith, D.M says
I remember Wayne (and Vicki) from their time at First Presbyterian Church of Annapolis, Maryland. It was always uplifting to be around Wayne as he was inquisitive, curious, positive, and walked the tenets of a faithful follower of Jesus. Mercy, peace, and love be yours in abundance (Jude 1:2) as the family navigates the time of sorrow and transition of life.
Susan Herman says
My deepest sympathy to the Boulton family! I was a student for one year at PSCE when Dr. Boulton was President. The school was a terrific gift to me as I was healing from my second divorce and needed a nurturing place which PSCE certainly was. I will be forever grateful for the time I spent there and all the terrific faculty and administrators who taught me and cared for and about me. I don’t believe I ever had a conversation with Dr. Boulton but his imprint was on the school in ways I will never know. Thank you, Mrs. Boulton for being willing to come to Richmond!
Rev. Susan Herman H.R.
Presbytery of Chicago
Current Hospital Chapkain
Kate Singer says
Dear Vicki, Matt and Chris,
I don’t know how to express my condolences to you. I’m at such a loss for words. My friend Jack Ridle is right that grief is an ambush, even if you know it is coming. Dr. Boulton (I never called him Wayne for some reason) was one of my favorite professors at Hope and you, Vicki, Matt, and Chris, along with him were one of my favorite families in Richmond! The fall after graduation, I found myself working in Richmond, not knowing a soul. When I reached out to your husband and dad, I found friends. I remember meals, talks and a great movie about Chopin. Dr. Boulton challenged me during one of those conversations and that challenge has helped guide my life. Even before that, when I was a freshman at Hope, I remember calling your house one night at the end of the semester and talking to Vicki. My grandpa had died two days before my exam in Dr. Boulton’s class. I don’t remember why I even thought it would matter to call, but Vicki you were so kind on the phone with me, a complete stranger. It’s easy to see how you and Dr. Boulton were such a perfect pair. Please know that you are surrounded in love and prayers during this time and the year to come.
Chet Slaybaugh says
I just heard of Wayne’s passing only recently. He and I grew up together on the same street in Ardsley, NY way back in the 50’s. We went to the same very small high school where he and I loved basketball and both played on the school’s basketball team. However, we did not play at the same time. We shared so many good times together growing up.
I went off to college in 57 and he in 59 and we kind of lost track of each other after that. I was in touch with his son a few years back when the family was celebrating his birthday. I tried to remember each year to email him on Sept. 23rd, his birthday but I failed this past year to do so and I regret not doing it. He made the lives of so many so meaningful. I will miss him.