Appointed a home missionary of The American Baptist Home Mission Society in 1982 when he was pastor of the American Baptist church at Crow Agency, MT, Tootsie’s ministry with American Baptists began earlier when he served as pastor of Middle Verde Baptist Church, Camp Verde, AZ. He joined National Ministries’ executive staff in 1993 as Southwest Indian Ministries Coordinator.

Tootsie worked alongside other American Baptist Indian leaders in a FutureSearch process to develop a strategic direction for Indian Ministries. During his tenure with churches on the Hopi reservation, he served on the board of the Hopi Mission School and chaired the ecumenical group called Hopi Child/Youth Development along with the local Compassion USA board. Following retirement in December 1998, he faithfully served as a CHIEF (Christian Hope Indian Eskimo Fellowship) board member.

Ordained in 1975, Tootsie also served as director of Urban Ministries in Phoenix and as pastor of First Mesa Baptist Church, Polacca, AZ, during his ministry.

National Ministries’ Executive Director Dr. Aidsand F. Wright-Riggins III remembers Tootsie’s legacy: “I was gifted to know and serve with Emerson Tootsie for many years, as a board member, a colleague and as a friend. He was a gentle soul with a passionate love for Jesus Christ and the people he carried in his heart as he served them. Emerson made an indelible mark on the denomination and the mission of National Ministries. He will be missed even as we celebrate the ways he filled so many lives.”

Tootsie is survived by his wife, Isabelle, and daughter, Valerie. Funeral services were held on Saturday, May 30, at Keams Canyon Community Fellowship in Keams Canyon, AZ.

Condolences may be sent to his family at 5865 North Smokerise Drive, Flagstaff, AZ 86004-2729.

American Baptist Churches is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with 5,500 local congregations comprised of 1.3 million members across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.