Gregory Hephner, 59, of Wichita, Kansas, passed away 21 February 2024. He was a member of the General Board of the Church of the Nazarene, elected in June 2023. He passed just six weeks after receiving a glioblastoma diagnosis.

In addition to serving on the General Board of the Church of the Nazarene, Hephner was the Chairman of the Board for JESUS Film Harvest Partners (JFHP) and displayed a great passion for missions.

“It was my honor to work with Greg and receive his blessing and covering as we collaborated on strategy to reach people who have never heard the name of Jesus,” said JFHP director Brian Helstrom. “Greg was focused and organized in his humble and gentle manner to give strong direction to do the next best thing. He led with his time, influence, resources, and expertise.”

On the General Board, Hephner was the chair of the finance committee. General Treasurer Keith Cox called it a “privilege to have known Greg for many years, both as a friend and colleague on various ministry boards.”

“Greg served with passion and faithfulness in all the roles the Lord called him,” Cox said. I will miss his godly wisdom and discernment, but most of all, I will miss his friendship.”

Greg was born 25 August 1964 and has spent almost his entire life working in their family business, Hephner TV & Electronics. He attended MidAmerica Nazarene University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business. There he met his wife, Peggy. 

He was a member of Wichita First Church of the Nazarene for more than 30 years, where he led a Bible study, played percussion, led missions trips, and volunteered for almost any project that came up. According to the family obituary, he had a passion for learning, reading God’s Word, and sharing it with others.

“A lifelong student of the Bible, Greg spent hours each week preparing to teach his small group Bible study everything he was learning about God,” it read. “Greg’s vast knowledge of all things enriched everyone who knew him, yet he had a gift of sharing his insights in an approachable way that invited others to grow beside him at their own pace.”

Hephner was honored and remembered during the recent 100th session of the General Board, held in Overland Park, Kansas, USA, 23-26 February.

Greg was preceded in death by his parents, Lonnie and Bonnie Hephner. He is survived by his wife, Peggy; sons, Michael and Sean Hepner; sister, Lori Hephner; three grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.