We are saddened by the death of Stuart Plummer, Ph.D. on December 15, 2021, as reported in the Denver Post on December 21, 2021.

Familiarly known as Stu Plummer, Dr. Plummer received a PhD, in theological studies from Princeton University. In 1960, Stu Plummer created the Department of Pastoral Education and Care at Presbyterian Medical Center in Denver and served in various leadership roles including being a Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) Supervisor of CPE students.

Dr. Plummer studied alongside psychoanalytic candidates and received a diploma in Applied Psychoanalytic Studies in 1981 from the Denver Institute for Psychoanalysis.

At Presbyterian, Stu created a psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, role-responsive, non-denominational framework for the work of the chaplaincy students. These students on the front lines of care applied these concepts to their work with injured and dying patients and families in the emergency room and hospital floors.

Dr. Mary Ann Levy whom Dr. Plummer recruited to provide psychoanalytic/psychiatric consultation for the chaplaincy students, recalled her experiences with Stu, his students and the program: “I worked with many chaplains over nearly twenty years in a case discussion group and found their skills exemplary as a result of Stu Plummer and his colleagues. It was an honor to work with him in classes as we discussed complex medical, psychiatric and emotional needs. He left a legacy of many compassionate and competent pastoral counselors and was an impressive person who generated skilled chaplains who understood and utilized psychoanalytic principles where relevant.”

Stu was active in the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE) and served in Regional Director and Interim Executive Director roles. He was awarded the ACPE 2001 Distinguished Service Award for his contributions and leadership as an ACPE Supervisor.

After retiring from chaplaincy training, he had a private practice in Denver. In his spare time, Stu enjoyed reading, listening to music, watching sports, skiing, fishing, hiking with family, playing basketball, squash, and tennis. He loved to sing and will be remembered for his beautiful voice.

Stu was preceded in death by his parents F. Arnold and Phebe S. Plummer and his wife Maxine (Glaz). He is survived by his wife Agnes Bourne; his former wife Sally; his children (with Sally) Sarah (Lisa) Davis, David, and Nancy; his stepdaughter Rachel Walaskay and step-granddaughters Kylie Squires and Sara Squires.

A private graveside service for family is planned for the spring or early summer. In lieu of flowers, consider making a donation to a charity of your choice in his name.

Click here to read the Obituary from Denver Post & Legacy.com