Bob Green

Bob Green (April 4, 1929 - December 28, 2025), professor extraordinaire, left behind a legacy of words and wisdom to his two children, five grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, and multitudes of students, friends and pastors.

His love of language (and how it forms us) caused him to think slowly and deeply to find the right words before he spoke into many situations, either intellectual or personal or spiritual. He was a sought-after Board member, serving McPherson College in academic committees, Central Christian College of Kansas Board of Trustees, Cedars Board of Trustees, and Pastor’s Cabinet and adult Sunday School teacher at McPherson Free Methodist Church.

He chose to intentionally live out that love of language teaching English in the classroom, first in high schools in Oklahoma and Kansas, then the college classroom at Central Christian College of Kansas and McPherson College. His students comment that his teaching them how to write fostered their success in many chosen fields. One of his favorite adages about writing was: “The best writing is rewriting.”

Beyond words, Bob was deeply curious about how things work. He enjoyed understanding and repairing machines, tinkering with engines, and devising practical solutions for everyday problems. Antique cars and tools held a special fascination for him, as did the night sky.

Later in life, he began reading about and studying astrophysics so he could understand a little bit how the universe operated. He continued to challenge himself creatively and intellectually—sewing his own sport jackets, baking bread, and crafting shelves and frames from reclaimed wood. His grandchildren experienced this love of learning firsthand through his genuine interest in their studies and careers.

He also scrutinized his faith, accepting the premise that there was more about God than language could explain. He sought a faith rooted in relationship rather than dogma, one that made room for mystery and ambiguity. Worship, for him, was expressed not only in words but through engagement with the earth—helping with planting and harvests, cultivating generous gardens, and living with gratitude for creation—as well as through a deep appreciation of classical music, particularly when experienced live. Kansas Public Radio was a welcome companion when live performances were not possible.

Bob lived his 96 years fully and intentionally. He leaves behind daughter Lucia (Greg); son Michael (Linda); grandchildren: Jeremy (Tracey), Chris (Jeff), Joshua, Lacee (Aaron), Tyler (Laura). He was preceded in death by his wife Gayla of 71 years, his granddaughter-in-law Michelle and his five siblings.

The family invites friends, colleagues, and community members to join them in a Celebration of Bob’s life on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at McPherson Free Methodist Church. The celebration will begin at 2:00 p.m., with the family available to greet guests before and after the service.

Memorial donations may be given to the Bob and Gayla Green Scholarship at McPherson College in care of Stockham Family Funeral Home, 205 North Chestnut, McPherson, KS 67460.