Rev. James W. Reapsome, age 88, of Downer’s Grove, passed away peacefully on June 26, 2017, with his wife and daughter by his side. Jim is survived by his wife of 55 years, Martha (nee Gray), daughter Sara (Paul) Schmidt of Yarrow Point, WA and grandchildren Catherine and John. He is preceded in death by his wife, Evelyn (nee Duffy) and son John.

Jim was born on October 16, 1928 in Mount Joy, PA to parents Willis and Mary Reapsome. He received a BA in History from Franklin and Marshall College and a Th.M. from Dallas Theological Seminary.

Jim had a long and useful career as a pastor, author, teacher and mentor. His passion was missions journalism. A thought leader in missiology, his writing reshaped the conversation, encouraging analysis and fostering innovation. Jim was editor at the Sunday School Times in Philadelphia and managing editor of Christianity Today in Wheaton. He founded The Evangelical Missions Quarterly in 1964 and served as its editor for 33 years. He was a professor at Malone College, Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and Columbia International University. He was a prolific writer of books, articles and curricula with Bible study guides selling over 640,000 copies. He pastored at Congregational Bible Church in Marietta, PA and later at Western Springs Baptist Church. Jim continued to preach and write after retiring to Oak Trace in Downer’s Grove. His last manuscript, “The Jesus Paul Knew” will be published posthumously.

Jim was an engaging conversationalist with a profound knowledge of world history, theology and global cultures. He loved gardening, Scrabble and the game of baseball. A bird-watcher and avid golfer, he played the local course well into his 80s. His family and friends will remember him as genuine, likeable, committed to his Christian faith, capable and servant-hearted.

Visitation is Friday, July 7th at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside 6:30-8:30 PM. Funeral on Saturday, July 8th at Western Springs Baptist Church, 4475 Wolf Rd., Western Springs at 10:30 AM. Donations may be made to FOCUS Mulago Child Project, Kampala, Uganda c/o Faith and Learning. PO Box 480 Wheaton, IL 60189.