St. Davids, PA — On January 25, Eastern University hosted a Celebration of Life service in honor of the late Rev. Dr. Tony Campolo ’56, BD ’60, ThM ’61, HD ’06, one of Eastern’s most esteemed alumni. Tony, a beloved member of the Eastern and Palmer community, was a passionate and widely respected advocate for faith in action and social justice. He earned several degrees from both Eastern Baptist College and Eastern Baptist (now Palmer) Theological Seminary. Tony passed away on November 19, 2024, at the age of 89.
The service, attended by over 700 people with many more joining via livestream, was held at Church of the Saviour in Wayne and served as a testament to Tony’s profound impact on Eastern University and the world. Throughout his career as a professor, minister, speaker, and author, Tony’s teachings inspired generations to embrace a faith deeply rooted in love, justice, and compassion. His legacy continues to resonate within Eastern’s mission of Faith, Reason, and Justice and is carried out in those he mentored and taught.
"When I joined the Angels [of Harmony], they talked about one faculty member more than any other, and that was Tony Campolo,” said Bryan Stevenson ‘81, Founder and Executive Director of the Equal Justice Initiative and author of Just Mercy. “They said you’ve got to take Campolo[‘s class]; they said Campolo will fill your head, but he’ll feed your soul.”
The service featured a heartfelt and diverse program, reflecting the depth and breadth of Tony’s influence. Highlights included:
- A moving hour-long slideshow showcasing Tony’s life and friendships.
- Musical tributes led by Dr. Steven Ford and Eastern’s Angels of Harmony, as well as a solo by celebrated gospel singer Mark Lowry.
- Eulogies by Bryan Stevenson and Tony’s protégé Steve Chalke, both of whom reflected on Tony’s unwavering commitment to justice and service.
- Invocation and scripture readings by esteemed Eastern alumni, including Saleem Ghubril HD '14, Jonathan Wilson-Hartgrove ‘03, Wendy Ryan '77, HD '15, Jodina Hicks ‘93, and Shane Claiborne ‘97.
- Personal remembrances from family and friends, including Secretary Hillary Clinton, who shared a letter from former President Bill Clinton in honor of Tony’s life and work.
- Video tributes from family and friends, including songwriter, activist, and lead-singer of U2, Bono, and acclaimed Gospel singer and songwriter, Bill Gaither.
- Additional notable individuals in attendance included former Congresswoman Marjorie Margolies, former Mayor of Philadelphia Dr. Wilson Goode, Sojourners founder Jim Wallis, and author and former broadcast journalist Mort Crim.
A distinguished aspect of the service was the presence of the Campolo Fellows, an influential program established by Tony to prepare Eastern and Palmer Seminary students for ministry. These students and alumni, who served as ushers, represented the continuation of his mission to equip and mentor future faith leaders, ensuring that his passion for ministry and service will endure for generations to come.
In addition to his many career callings like teaching, ministry, and author, Tony also served as spiritual advisor to former President Bill Clinton.
"When he launched into ‘It’s Friday, but Sunday's comin'…, –it just grabbed every one of us,” said Hillary Rodham Clinton, former First Lady, former Secretary of State, and Co-chair of The Clinton Foundation. “And I can not tell you how many times I personally have had to say [that] to myself . . . I am so grateful for our great friend Tony for literally impressing that on my heart and in my mind."
Tony’s influence extended far beyond Eastern University, particularly through his work with the “Red Letter Christianity” movement. He challenged people to live out the radical love of Christ in their daily lives — a message that was evident in the overwhelming attendance at his Celebration of Life service, where hundreds gathered to honor the profound impact he had on their faith and lives.
“As a kid, the best thing about having Tony Campolo as a grandparent was that, although he was Tony Campolo, my Poppop always showed up,” said Miranda Campolo Stowers ’12, Tony’s oldest grandchild. “School plays, basketball games, birthday parties — you name it and he was there. He probably came directly from the airport, but jetlag never stopped him from being my loudest and most enthusiastic supporter.”
Though his passing is deeply felt, Tony’s legacy remains alive in the hearts of those he touched. As we remember his life, we are reminded of his call to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God” (Micah 6:8). Eastern University is honored to have been part of his journey and remains committed to carrying forward the values he so passionately championed through the Campolo Center for Ministry, and its mission and values as an institution.
Learn more about Tony Campolo’s legacy and the Campolo Center for Ministry.
About Eastern University
Eastern University is a Christian university enrolling approximately 8,700 students in its undergraduate, graduate, and seminary programs. The university’s main campus is located in St. Davids, PA, with many programs available online. Eastern’s core values of faith, reason, and justice are woven into all of its educational programs. For more information visit eastern.edu or contact Ally Rosario, Director of Marketing & Communications: ally.rosario@eastern.edu.