Courtney taught in Drew Theological School for nearly 40 years
March 2025 – Drew University is mourning the passing of Charles Courtney, who taught at Drew Theological School for 38 years.
Courtney passed away on March 19.
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Courtney came to Drew Theological School in 1964 as an instructor, teaching philosophy of religion. He quickly became an assistant professor in 1965, an associate professor in 1969, and professor in 1977.
He held administrative positions including acting dean of the Theological School (1987) and dean of student life (1987-88), and served in many other leadership capacities on campus, including as the cross country coach from 1970-74 and as acting director of the University Library from 1999-2001.
Courtney took a three-year break from his time at Drew, serving as an adjunct professor of philosophy at Georgetown University. He returned to Drew in 1992, where he taught until his retirement in 2004. Upon his retirement, Courtney was named professor emeritus.
Courtney was a highly visible and highly engaged member of the Drew and local communities, often spotted in a Drew shirt, riding his bike, and taking part in Madison’s Community Garden, which he co-founded.
In 2023, Courtney returned to campus to commemorate the planting of a Liberty Tree in front of Mead Hall, a gesture symbolizing freedom. The last Liberty Tree planted on campus had occurred 25 years earlier in 1989—a ceremony Courtney had also taken part in.
During his career, Courtney was a frequent guest lecturer, authored numerous scholarly articles and reviews, and edited and translated many books. He primarily focused on the areas of phenomenology, philosophy of religion, human rights, and poverty.
Academically, in addition to earning a bachelor’s, two master’s, and a doctorate degree, Courtney was also a Fulbright Scholar and an honored fellow of many notable religious-based organizations.
He will be greatly missed by the Drew community he impacted for 40 years, and beyond.
