Last week, I heard from my sister that my childhood pastor, the Rev. James (Jim) A. Dewey, fell at his home and was taken to the hospital, where he died about a week later, surrounded by his family. 

Pastor Dewey, affectionately known as PD to me and others, pastored Lynnhurst United Church of Christ, the church I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky. PD cherished his family and the time they shared, whether at dinner, special occasions, or simply together. His family was his greatest joy and pride, and he showed his love in countless ways. PD’s humor and vibrant personality drew people in, while his generosity made them feel welcome. He treasured lifelong friendships and helped others recognize the good in themselves. For 40 years, PD devoted himself to serving the church and its people, offering guidance, encouragement, compassion, and support. His faith and service touched countless lives, leaving a legacy of love, faith, and service.

PD had a remarkably simple way to describe how a Christian should live: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, mind, and soul, and love your neighbor as yourself. He didn’t believe faith was something you talked about only on Sunday. It was something you lived from Monday through Sunday. It was how you treated people, how you showed up for them, and how you loved them.

I remember hearing how he decided to become a minister. Raised in a troubled family, he spent much of his time at a nearby church. His minister encouraged him to attend church camp, but like many high schoolers, he wasn’t interested. After persistent urging, he agreed, though reluctantly. On the bus, he decided to make the best of it. Because few campers knew him, he chose to be his best self: outgoing, friendly, and especially kind to quieter campers. By camp’s end, everyone loved him, and he liked who he had become. He also felt God calling him to ministry and pursued that path.

I could not travel to Louisville, KY, for his funeral, but thank God they livestreamed the memorial service so I could watch it and hear many people share their stories about PD. Some words from his final sermon, as recounted by his son, Eric, struck me, and I want to share them with you.

“If you treat everyone the same, regardless of the color of their skin, religious background, nationality, sex, or political background, you will not have to wash your hands.” He was referring to Pontius Pilate. After 40 years of preaching, teaching, and caring for people, this was what mattered enough for PD to say at the very end. How we treat one another matters. Every person has dignity. Every person has worth. And we don’t get to wash our hands of one another. Even when we can’t control every circumstance, we can choose to respond with fairness, compassion, and love.

Simple words. Not always easy, but words we should all live by. RIP PD. Well done, good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of our Lord!

Take care,

Bill R.