Former Global University President, Zenas Bicket, Passes

Zenas J. Bicket, the former president of Berean College (now Global University) entered the presence of God on Sept. 17. He was 87.

Bicket, who succumbed to Alzheimer’s disease, was born Oct. 14, 1932, in Hartford, Illinois. He was a renowned educator and leader. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and Central Bible Institute in Springfield, Missouri, Bicket earned his master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Arkansas.

Following teaching English and serving as academic dean at Evangel College (now university) in Springfield, Missouri, he became dean of curriculum instructional design at Berean College in 1985. He was named the Springfield-based college’s president in 1989, where he served until he retired in 1999. He traveled to India, Africa, and China to teach in Bible schools and ministers’ institutes. In 1999, he earned the AG’s Distinguished Educator Award.

Bicket’s daughter, Debbie, following him being honored by Evangel University, stated: “He was a natural teacher. He preferred the classroom over administration, but still stepped up to the plate when he was asked, two different times, to take over the position of academic dean. We are proud of his legacy. He touched the lives of so many people, yet he remained a humble and a kind man. He never lost his temper and always controlled his words.”

The author of many books and articles, Bicket wrote Berean Bible courses, served as the chairman of the commission on doctrinal purity of the Assemblies of God (now commission on doctrines and practices), and contributed regularly in responding to doctrinal, biblical, and spiritual questions received at the Assemblies of God national offices.

Bicket was preceded in death by his wife, Rhoda. He is survived by children Debbie, Dan, and David Bicket, two grandchildren, and several great- and great-great-grandchildren.  

A funeral service was held Sept. 23 at Central Assembly of God in Springfield, Missouri. Those wishing to honor Bicket’s life and service are encouraged to donate to the Evangel University/Bicket Family Scholarship.