Thomas Stewart Field, 93, Springfield, peacefully left his earthly family Thursday, March 12, 2009. Born June 2, 1915, in Chicago, IL, to Thomas and Ann Field, he married his "Ginny Girl", Virginia Leach, May 20, 1939. They lived, loved, worked, and served together until her death in 1994. Remembering him today are their two daughters and sons-in-law, Mr. & Mrs. Donald (Linda) Duncan, and Mr. & Mrs. James (Becky) Montgomery; four grandchildren, Gregory Duncan and wife Amy, Jim Montgomery, Jr. and wife Melissa, Virginia Ross and husband Keith, and Jonathan Duncan and wife Michelle, and perhaps most pleasing to him, six great-grandchildren, Stewart and Emily Duncan, Makenzie and Audrey Montgomery, Madaline Ross, and Lillie Duncan. An early call to Christian ministry shaped a life lived unequivocally in the service of his Lord. Pastorates in New Jersey, New York, Georgia, and Louisiana eventually led Tom & Virginia to the pastorate of First Baptist Church, Springfield in 1960. His compelling desire to serve, coupled with his innate sense of leadership, thrust him into many significant local and national roles of responsibility in Baptist life and beyond. The opportunity to take on the challenge of leading William Jewell College, Liberty, MO, in 1970 was a natural extension of his Christian priorities and love of learning. Together with Virginia, they poured their lives into making the College a vibrant, highly-regarded institution, crafting what became known as the "Decade of Greatness." Being named "President Emeritus" was among his proudest accomplishments. In 1991, Missouri Baptist University, St. Louis, saw in him the proven leadership they needed at a crucial time in the institution's history. As the "Interim President" position stretched from months into years, his executive prowess and personal compassion not only left an indelible mark on the University, but also created the strong foundation on which it continues to build. The energetic mind behind the numerous accomplishments and awards is second only to the dynamic heart behind the man who reached up or stepped down to befriend anyone who crossed his path. From restaurant servers to life-long friends, all those who came into contact with him could easily see beyond sparkling blue eyes and jovial jabs to a deep sense of compassion and genuine love. Others may claim similarly impressive vitas, but far fewer possess the underlying spirit that proved a much more valuable contribution to this world. His reach truly exceeded his grasp. As he frequently admonished those around him, so he has now taught us yet again by example, that throughout the "vicissitudes of life" we should emerge "not somehow, but triumphantly!" Services will be at 1:30pm, Mon., March 16, 2009, at Second Baptist Church, Springfield, preceded by visitation at 12:30 in the church atrium. Burial will follow at Hazelwood Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to William Jewell College, Missouri Baptist University, or Second Baptist Church, Springfield.