Bob Edgar was born May 29, 1943 in Philadelphia, PA, the son of Leroy and Marion Edgar. He was raised in Springfield, Delaware County, PA. He graduated in 1965 from Lycoming College in Williamsport, PA and three years later received a Masters of Divinity degree from Drew University in Madison, NJ. He also hold five honorary doctorate degrees.
As an ordained United Methodist minister, Bob served the East Falls UMC and was the protestant chaplain at Drexel University, both in Philadelphia, PA. In 1974, he was elected to the US House of Representatives from Pennsylvania’s 7th district and served six terms. From 1990 – 2000, Bob was the President of Claremont School of Theology in California. Returning to the East Coast in 2000, Bob was the General Secretary of the National Council of Churches, based in New York City. In 2007, Bob took on the role as President and CEO of Common Cause, a nonpartisan public interest organization in Washington that advocates tighter regulation of campaign finance and other reforms. All of his life’s work gave Bob the ability to live his Christian faith, while serving the community.
Bob is survived by his wife of 48 years, Merle Deaver Edgar of Burke; three sons, Robert Edgar Jr. and his wife Barbara of Fort Payne, AL, David Edgar and his wife Karen of Moon Township, PA, and Andrew Edgar of Herdon, VA and his partner Jules Sherred of British Columbia; his mother, Marion Edgar of Villas, NJ; two brothers, Ralph Edgar of Grand Detour, IL, and Richard Edgar of Mechanicsville, MD. Bob has eight grandchildren, Benjamin, Daniel Ray, Leah, Ashley, Courtney, Samantha, Tracy, and Own (and one on the way in October) and four step grandchildren, Cameron, Kyle, Lane and Erin.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
The Service of Death and Resurrection
and
A Celebration of Life
for
Robert William Edgar
May 29, 1943 – April 23, 2013
Prelude
Entrance of the Family
Greeting
Words of Grace – Rev. Morgan Guyton
Hymn #577 – God of Grace, God of Glory
Opening Prayer
Old Testament Reading – Micah 6: 6-8
New Testament Reading – 1 Corinthian 13: 1-3
Family Witness – David Edgar and Rob Edgar
Words of Witness – Rev. Bill Gray and Rev. Thom Gallen
Solo – Amazing Grace – Barbara Edgar
Meditation – Rev. Judy Fender
Closing Prayer
Lord’s Prayer
Hymn #437 – This Is My Song
Benediction
Recessional
Postlude
I never met Bob and I was inspired by him. He stood for justise and kindness, peace and love. Because of him I have applied these principles in my life and and advocacy endeavors.
I called Bob when he was calling for the resignation of Alberto Gonzales as Attorney General. He had been appointed to head Common Cause, but was still at the National Council of Churches. Bob was a visionary in understanding of, and moving in this matter so fundamental to the restoration of justice in the U.S.
We were friends ever since.
In undertaking the walk in pursuit of justice Bob achieved eternal life. He is with us, and we are with him.
Bob’s moral courage in speaking out against injustice has been an inspiration.