FUSSA, Japan — Warren D. Webster, the longtime pastor at Yokota Baptist Church, died Monday night at a hospital in Tachikawa. He was 68.
Webster suffered a heart attack while relaxing at home in Fussa, according to Senior Airman Daniel McKittrick, a congregation member who works for American Forces Network-Tokyo at Yokota Air Base. He was rushed to a medical facility in Tachikawa but died at 9:15 p.m.
A memorial service took place Wednesday evening at the church, located outside the base. The funeral is tentatively scheduled for Saturday in Pasco, Wash.
“He was like a father to me,” McKittrick said. “It was very sudden. Everyone is still in shock right now.
“He had just returned from the States and gotten a medical check. They were listening to the radio at home. He got chest pains and said his chest felt heavy.”
Webster spent 40 years in the ministry, including the past seven in Japan with his wife, Joyce. She plans to fly back to the States for the burial and return later, according to a message posted on the church’s Web site.
About 170 people attend off-base Sunday services at Yokota Baptist Church. It also operates Yokota Christian Academy, which has about 25 students.
Webster also is survived by two daughters, Pam and Michelle; two sons, Jonathan and David; and several grandchildren.
In lieu of flowers, Joyce Webster has requested donations in her husband’s name to missions. They can be made by contacting Pastor John Paisley or Pastor Paul Williams at Riverview Baptist Church in Pasco, Wash., at (509) 544-2021; or through Yokota Baptist Church at 042-552-7254.
