By Constance Cherry, D.Min., President
The Institute for Worship Studies is sad to announce and mourns the passing of alumnus Robert Burns, a beloved member of the D.W.S. Chi cohort, graduating in 2013. Rob died on March 30, 2026. For the past twenty years of pastoral ministry, he served the Crestwood Presbyterian Church in Richmond, Virginia as Associate Pastor. He provided leadership in many areas including small groups discipleship, missions, preaching, and pastoral care. His church recalls that “Rob was not just a pastor. He was a shepherd in the truest sense.” Classmates in the Chi Cohort echo this sentiment:
“Rob brought to our Chi cohort a rare combination of gentle wisdom, pastoral presence, and joyful spirit. Whether in the classroom, around the table at meals, or spending time together after class, he consistently made every setting more gracious, thoughtful, and fun. He will be deeply missed” (Jonathan Powers, D.W.S. 2013).
“Rob’s ‘pastoral’ presence in our cohort was a steadying and unifying factor. I will always remember the richness of his “renewal of baptism” message delivered at our closing chapel service” (Betty Weatherby, D.W.S. 2013).
Visitation is April 17, 2026, from 6:00-8:00 pm; a Celebration of Life will be held April 18, 2026, at 11:00 am. Both events will be held at Crestwood Church, Midlothian campus.
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy, he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil, or fade—kept in heaven for you (1 Pet. 1:3-4).
You may view Robert’s obituary, see photos and leave memories here.