A Reflection on 95 Years of Grace and Witness
By Lyle Hampton, Seabury Western Class of 1957
As I mark my 95th birthday, I’m reflecting on a long and grateful life shaped by faith, service, and a deep curiosity about the world and its people. I grew up in a small town in northeast Kansas, surrounded by friends of many backgrounds—Black, Mexican, American Indian, and Jewish. We were simply friends. It wasn’t until Catholic neighbor kids asked if I was Catholic or Protestant that I first became aware of the labels others carried.
After years of schooling straight through from high school to Seabury, I took a break and joined the Army for two years. I was mostly stationed in Germany, where I was fortunate to attend Episcopal retreats in Berchtesgaden, travel to England, and spend a Holy Week in Rome. These experiences broadened my faith and deepened my appreciation for the global church.
After returning to Kansas and serving churches there, I rejoined the Army—this time as a chaplain. I was posted at Ft. Riley when I convinced my brilliant wife to marry me. Pat, with her five academic degrees (including a PhD from Northwestern), had been working in the JFK administration at the Library of Congress. Life on base was limiting for someone of her talents, and so, together, we transitioned into teaching, especially in private schools across Tennessee. Those schools were still deeply rooted in segregation, and my perspective—shaped by an inclusive upbringing—sometimes earned me the nickname “Moscow-trained.” Even so, I’ve remained friends with many of the students and hope I offered them a window into a broader, more compassionate world.
I’ve retired to a beautiful home just north of San Diego, where I enjoy a vibrant and diverse community. Today, in fact, I’m preparing to join many of my Jewish neighbors for a Passover meal. During Lent, I committed to reading the entire Bible—not just in bits and pieces, but straight through—and it’s been a powerful journey.
I remain grateful for the foundation laid at Seabury, for the friendships and formation that carried me through decades of ministry, and for the joy of still learning, still connecting, and still witnessing to the life of the Spirit at 95. I’d love to hear from any fellow alums who remember the old days. And yes, one of the “limos” we use for shopping here really does look like the Batmobile.
Blessings and peace,
Lyle E. Hampton
Seabury Western Class of 1957
