David B. Watermulder, 94, pastor

The Rev. David Brainard Watermulder, 94, formerly of Bryn Mawr, a church leader and preacher who served as pastor of Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church for 24 years, died Saturday, April 11, of heart failure at Waverly Heights, Gladwyne. He had moved to Waverly Heights in 2003.

Mr. Watermulder was the youngest child of the Rev. Gustav A. and Hendrika Watermulder, both missionaries.

He graduated from the University of Kansas in 1942 and from Princeton Theological Seminary in 1945, and later earned postgraduate degrees from Princeton Seminary and Oxford University.

Known for preaching that was informed by Biblical references, a deep intellect, and a commitment to community service, Mr. Watermulder worked elsewhere before joining Bryn Mawr Presbyterian in 1962. He served until 1986 and later became pastor emeritus.

Under his leadership, the church established its Weekday School; a tutoring program for inner-city children; and the Timothy School in Berwyn for autistic children.

He was a leader on social issues, and in August 1963 participated in the March on Washington.

Mr. Watermulder served on the boards of local church-related colleges, hospitals, seminaries, and missions. Nationally, he worked for the Presbyterian Church (USA) as chairman of the board of national missions during the 1960's and 1970s. On the global stage, he represented his denomination with the World Council of Churches in 1968 in Uppsala, Sweden.

At Princeton Seminary, Mr. Watermulder was a trustee and board chairman.

Mr. Watermulder is survived by his wife of 68 years, Ruth Gullyes; sons Paul and Peter; a daughter, Martha; six grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. A great-grandson died earlier.

A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Friday, April 17, at Bryn Mawr Presbyterian Church, 625 Montgomery Ave, Bryn Mawr, Pa. 19010.

Donations may be made to the church at the address above or Princeton Theological Seminary, Box 821, 64 Mercer St., Princeton, N.J. 08542.