Seminary Honors Slain Pastor With New Scholarship
Memphis Theological Seminary in Tennessee has announced the creation of a scholarship in memory of Rev. Dr. Autura Eason-Williams, a respected United Methodist pastor and alumna who was tragically killed in 2022. The scholarship is intended to support Methodist students who are passionate about justice and ministry rooted in the love of Christ. The seminary aims to raise $50,000 by the end of July 2025, with the goal of awarding the first scholarship in the fall semester that year.
Rev. Eason-Williams had a notable impact as a pastor and church leader, serving in various roles including District Superintendent in the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference. She was known for her advocacy in social justice, anti-racism, and nonviolence. Her contributions included founding programs such as Signposts, an anti-racism course, and co-authoring the Soul Force Initiative, which addressed gun violence through faith-based engagement. Seminary leaders hope the scholarship will help form new leaders who will carry on her legacy of service and compassion.
Her life was cut short in July 2022 when she was fatally shot during a carjacking outside her Memphis home. She was reportedly on the phone with a colleague at the time of the attack. Three individuals were held responsible for her death, including two teenagers and a 22-year-old man. The teens received sentences ranging from time in juvenile custody to 28 years in prison, while the adult was sentenced to 20 years. The case drew local and national attention and led to emotional statements from her family during court proceedings.
Leaders at the seminary emphasized that Eason-Williams’ legacy lives on through her work and the lives she touched. Rev. Mark Matheny, among others, noted her wide-ranging ministry and sacrificial leadership, expressing hope that the scholarship will inspire and empower future generations of Methodist leaders. Through this effort, the seminary intends to continue her mission by equipping students who are committed to faith, justice, and community transformation.