Paul David Brewer

PAUL DAVID BREWER SR, 87, long-time Carson-Newman professor and pastor, passed away peacefully at home on June 28. From a humble childhood profoundly shaped by the Great Depression, Paul discovered a love of God and learning that not only brought him lifelong joy and meaning, but allowed him to build a life that brought this same passion to many others. The third of six sons born in South Pittsburg TN to Tilda McBee Brewer and William Scott Brewer, Paul’s early years were marked by hardship, including his own illness and extended hospitalization, and the death of a younger brother. Guided by a family friend, however, he became a Christian at age 17, a decision that changed the trajectory of his life. Paul soon felt called to ministry which also ignited his love of learning. The first in his family to attend college, Paul entered Carson-Newman College in 1947 where he met and married the love of his life, Imogene Baker. He completed a doctorate in philosophy from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, while simultaneously earning a Master’s degree in English from Texas Christian University. Throughout his studies, he also pastored a church in Loving TX. Paul returned to Carson-Newman in 1958 as a faculty member, and in the following 38 years of teaching philosophy and religion he helped shape the lives of innumerable students, as well as the institution itself. He was a demanding professor, but always encouraged and nurtured his students’ intellectual development. He remained in touch with many former students and took great pride in their accomplishments. He also served CNU in administrative roles, coached football, and was instrumental in establishing the Honor’s Program, the Center for Baptist Studies and various lectureships. In 1980 he was honored with CNU’s Distinguished Faculty Award. Paul and Imogene generously invested in students at CNU by establishing a scholarship for an outstanding religion or philosophy student and by endowing the Oxford study abroad program. Their generosity will enrich lives for years to come. Ordained since 1949, Paul’s ministry included full-time pastorates in TX, and over 30 interim pastorates across East Tennessee. For 65 years, rarely a Sunday passed when he did not preach. Even after retirement from CNU, he served for ten years as interim pastor at Hebron Presbyterian Church. Every step of his ministry was supported by his wife of 64 years, Imogene, who typed and edited innumerable papers and sermons, accompanied him on pastoral visits, hosted students, and enhanced his work in countless ways. Paul also contributed to his community, serving in volunteer and leadership positions with Jefferson County Habitat for Humanity, the Public Library, Little League, and the Jefferson County Election commission, among others. He was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Jefferson City, where he also was an ordained deacon. His greatest pride was his family. He was a loving father and grandfather to his three sons and six grandchildren, attending their sporting events and concerts, and supporting their studies and accomplishments. To family and friends, Paul modeled lifelong learning. He was an insatiable reader up until his final days. He also passed on his love of sports as one who enjoyed playing and watching many sports, particularly when one of his sons or grandchildren were playing. In addition, he leaves a legacy of integrity and commitment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His family benefitted from his steady guidance and will miss him dearly. Preceded in death by his son, Donald Lee Brewer, parents, Scott and Tilda Brewer, and brothers, Thomas, Pete, and Melvin. Left to mourn his passing: wife, Imogene Baker Brewer; sons, David (Gina Vuolo) of Rye, NY, Dan (Sherry Shurden) of Maryville, and daughter-in-law, Andrea Gosselin Brewer (Knoxville); grandchildren, Eric Brewer (Melissa) of Lexington KY, Jake Brewer (Lauren) of Knoxville, Emily Brewer (Brooklyn NY), Ben Brewer (Atlanta), Elle Brewer (Atlanta) and Alessandra Imbesi Brewer (Rye, NY); great-grandchildren Hunter, Hudson, and Hayden; brothers, Bob Brewer (Gigi) and Bill Brewer (Foye); cherished family friends Bobbie Cloe and Bedford Allison, numerous nieces and nephews, and many lifelong friends. A celebration of life will be held at First Baptist Church of Jefferson City on Sunday, July 3 at 3:00 p.m. with Rev. Bill Rosser and Emily Brewer, presiding. A reception in Fellowship Hall will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Paul and Imogene Brewer Scholarship Fund (Carson-Newman), Jefferson County Habitat for Humanity, or First Baptist Church of Jefferson City.