BREAKING: Rev. Robert J. “Bob” Pagett, a cherished humanitarian and pastor, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on October 8, 2025, in Santa Cruz, California. He was surrounded by his loving wife, Charlene, as he took his final breath. Pagett’s death marks the end of a remarkable life dedicated to faith, family, and humanitarian service.
Born in 1938 in Grand Junction, Colorado, Bob Pagett’s journey of compassion began early. He married Charlene at a young age, embarking on a partnership that spanned over 68 years. Their shared commitment to ministry and service transformed countless lives through their work.
After graduating from Bethany Bible College, Pagett received his ministerial license in 1959. He began his pastoral career in Portland and Eugene, Oregon, later serving as the District Youth and Christian Education Director for Oregon. In 1973, he became the Senior Pastor of Christian Life Center in Santa Cruz, where he led the congregation until 1990.
In 1990, an eye-opening experience in Romania ignited Bob and Charlene’s passion for humanitarian work. Witnessing the plight of orphaned children living in the sewers after the fall of communism, they founded Assist International. For over 35 years, the organization has provided essential resources such as hospitals, orphan care, and clean water to vulnerable communities worldwide.
Pagett’s legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to others. He served on multiple boards, including the Board of Trustees for Bethany University, and was awarded an honorary doctorate in 2002. In 2009, he celebrated 50 years of impactful ministry.
A dedicated Rotarian, Pagett was a charter member of the Scotts Valley Rotary Club, embodying the motto “Service Above Self.” He leaves behind a profound impact on his family and community, remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Pagett is survived by his wife, Charlene, daughters Michelle Sudfeld and Cheri Reynolds, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his youngest daughter, Pamela Renee Pagett.
Bob Pagett’s life was a testament to his faith, echoing the words of 2 Timothy 4:7: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” His commitment to caring for the less fortunate aligns with the message of James 1:27: “Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress.”
A Memorial Celebration of Life is scheduled for Saturday, December 6 at 1:00 p.m. at Christian Life Center, located at 1009 Mission Street, Santa Cruz, California. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Assist International to continue the mission of hope and healing initiated by Bob and Charlene.
This profound loss resonates deeply within the community and beyond, as Rev. Robert Pagett’s legacy of love and service will continue to inspire generations to come.
