by the Rev. Bill Somplatsky-Jarman | Special to Presbyterian News Service
The Rev. Dr. Robert L. Stivers died last month at age 80. (Contributed photo)
LOUISVILLE â The Rev. Dr. Robert L. Stivers, a renowned ethicist, died in Tacoma, Washington, on December 23, 2020, at age 80.
An ordained Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) minister, Stivers taught religion and ethics at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma for 37 years. Upon his retirement in 2009, he was appointed Professor Emeritus of Religion and Ethics.
Throughout his career, he explored the ethical dimensions of environmental and economic issues and advocated for a âsustainable society.â He encouraged everyone to have love and appreciation for the natural world and to live accordingly. He stands as one of a key group of Christian ethicists who helped bridge the gap between the church and the academy, deepening the churchâs social witness with their scholarship, activism, and concern for the General Assembly.