Rev. Thomas J. Horbelt

The Reverend Thomas J. Horbelt, went home to be with the Lord on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at the age of 91.

He was born and raised in Millville, New Jersey. Shortly after graduating high school, he attended an evangelistic crusade in the Vineland High School Auditorium, responding to the salvation invitation that forever transformed his life. A year later he felt a call into pastoral ministry. He would go on to pastor the following; Canton Methodist Church, St. John’s Pleasantville, The Eldora Circuit, Gibbsboro Methodist, Trinity Methodist, Ventnor, New City Alliance Church, New City, New York, First Baptist Church in Atlantic City for 19 years, Winslow Baptist Church, Winslow Township, Fellowship Baptist, West Berlin and Weekstown Community Church as well as taking opportunities to serve in the capacity of interim pastor in other locations.

Always evangelistic in mindset and preaching, he had the privilege to preach at numerous revival meetings throughout his career. Over that time, hundreds would respond to the altar calls for salvation.

Thomas was a graduate of Temple University and Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary as well as the College For Financial Planning from which he received his CFP designation. He also enjoyed sports and exploring the forgotten towns and places of southern New Jersey.

He is survived by the love of his life and wife of 69 years, Eddee, nee Welch, his daughter Linda Sue (Edward) Carhart of Pine Hill, son Jay of Vineland, and granddaughter Cindy (Carter) Williams of Spartanburg, SC.

Home going services will be conducted by Dr. Terry Smith of Hardingville Bible Church on Monday, Aug. 24th at 11:00 am at the Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, 1024 E. Landis Ave. Vineland. Family and friends may gather from 10:00-11:00 am. Following the service, Rev. Thomas J. Horbelt will be laid to rest in Siloam Cemetery, Vineland.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.wbfuneralhome.com

Arrangements are in the care of Wainwright-Bernhardt Funeral Home, Vineland.