The community mourns the loss of Rev. Dr. Robert W. Blaney, who passed away peacefully at home in Santa Cruz on November 3, 2025, at the age of 94. A dedicated minister and educator, Blaney’s influential career spanned over six decades, during which he made significant contributions to both the church and academia.
Born in 1931, Blaney pursued his education in Mexico, Geneva, and Berlin before earning a Masters in Divinity and a Doctorate in Theology from Boston University School of Theology. He began his ministry in 1958 in Southern California, serving as pastor at the Brentwood Methodist Church and the Los Feliz Methodist Church in Los Angeles.
After years of pastoral work, Blaney transitioned to academia. He dedicated 30 years to teaching at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, where he held the position of Professor in the Religious Studies Department. His courses included Social Ethics, Biomedical Ethics, and Human Sexuality and Christianity, among others.
Advocate for Social Justice and Education
Blaney was a passionate advocate for social justice, championing the rights of farmworkers, the LGBTQ community, and other oppressed minorities. He played a pivotal role in establishing the Council of Bishops’ Scholarship Program, working alongside Bishop Talbert to support higher education initiatives. His commitment to education also led him to chair various committees, including the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry and the Conference Committee on Higher Education.
Notably, Blaney organized educational tours to Europe, focusing on themes such as the life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the dynamics of Christianity and communism in Eastern Europe prior to the fall of the Berlin Wall. His leadership in the Religious Studies Department culminated in his retirement in 1996, yet his influence continued through various church-related activities.
A Life of Service and Family
After retiring, Blaney and his wife, Laurel, relocated to the Santa Cruz area, where he remained actively involved at the Aptos United Methodist Church. His contributions included chairing ecumenical retreats for retired clergy and spouses, reflecting his lifelong commitment to community and service.
Blaney is survived by his wife of over 63 years, Laurel, and their two daughters, Martha and Joy. He leaves behind three grandchildren: David, Elizabeth, and Isabella. The Blaney family shared that he passed away surrounded by loved ones, a testament to the deep connections he fostered throughout his life.
A memorial service is scheduled for December 27, 2025, at 11 AM at the Aptos United Methodist Church, where friends and community members are invited to celebrate his remarkable life and legacy.
