Rev. Dr. Thomas F. St. Clair – Connellsville
Rev. Dr. Thomas F. St. Clair, 70, of Connellsville, passed away and into the Church Triumphant on Thursday, Nov. 18, 2021, at home with his family gathered around him. “Dr. Tom” was called by God to be a United Methodist pastor and district superintendent in the Connellsville District before retiring. Tom served the Western PA Annual Conference with integrity and love for all people. Born July 30, 1951, in Brownsville, he was the son of the late Herb and Betty St. Clair. He was married to Susan K. Porter, on May 22, 1971, at Taylor United Methodist Church and they celebrated 50 years of marriage this year. Tom graduated with his Bachelor of Science and Education, Masters in Education and Masters in School Administration, all from California State College, Masters in Divinity from United Theological Seminary and his Doctorate of Ministry from United Theological Seminary. He was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, a national honors fraternity. Tom began his career as a teacher and principal in Beth Center, Trinity and Bethel Park school districts. He also taught English as an adjunct professor at California University and Westmoreland County Community College. Tom then served as pastor the following appointments: Amanda UMC (Ohio), Fairview/Nebo UMC, Belle Vernon 1st UMC, Connellsville District Superintendent, Irwin 1st UMC, all in Western Pennsylvania. Tom retired in 2017 after serving the church faithfully for many years. Tom was community minded and loved the people he served and led. Tom was named Belle Vernon’s Man of the Year and served the Belle Vernon Area School District as a school board member for many years. He was involved with and served in the Rotary Club, the Belle Vernon and Irwin Area ministeriums and other organizations. Especially, Tom’s treasure resided in his marriage and family. Tom loved his “special angel,” wife of 50 years, Susan. Tom’s love for his wife was evident to all. That love carried Tom into eternity, knowing that his wife was by his side every step of the way. In addition to his wife, Tom is survived by his children, the Rev. Jeffrey (Jennifer) St. Clair of St. Johns, Fla., Jennifer (Eric) Martin of Dunbar, Jamie (Casey) Davis of Belle Vernon; sisters, Peggy (Warren) Liberatore and Cindy (Robert) Rager; a niece, nephew and many cousins. “Pappy” is also survived by his eight precious grandchildren; Aaron, Alayna and Abigail St. Clair, McKenzie and Logan Martin and Katelynn, Braden and Tommy Davis. Friends will be received from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday at FERGUSON FUNERAL HOME AND CREMATORY INC., 700 Broad Ave., Belle Vernon, 724-929-5300, www.FergusonFuneralHomeAndCrematory.com. A celebration of life will be held at 11 a.m. Monday at Belle Vernon First United Methodist Church, 200 State St., Belle Vernon, with the Revs. Jeffrey St. Clair, Steve Lamb and Ryan Washabaugh officiating. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Tom’s memory to Jumonville Camping and Retreat Center, https://jumonville.org/contribute/.
