Robert Cunville, Passionate BGEA Evangelist to India, Dies at 86

Robert Cunville, a preacher and evangelist from India, went to be with his Heavenly Father on Jan. 17. He had partnered with the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association (BGEA) since 1978 when Billy Graham personally invited him to join the team—recognising Cunville’s heart for the Gospel and keen eye for small details.

“He was one of the most humble, godly men I’ve ever known. He will be greatly missed,” Franklin Graham said. “He was such an encouragement to me and to our team.”

For nearly five decades, Cunville faithfully shared the Good News with over 5 million people in his home country—where Christians are a minority—and in 28 countries across Africa, Asia, and Europe.

“I don’t think there is another minister or preacher of the Gospel in India who has done more for that land than Dr. Cunville. A lot of folks come and go, … but he has stayed focused on preaching the Gospel,” said Viktor Hamm, BGEA vice president of Crusades.

The Call to Ministry

In a small city along the Brahmaputra River, Cunville was born to a highly educated, upper-class family. At a young age, his future was already planned out—he was going to attend law school in England. But one evening, while listening to a barefoot evangelist preach outside of a home, he felt convicted by God. When the invitation was given, he repented and committed his life to Jesus Christ.

This decision forever changed the course of his life.

Cunville’s parents were shocked when he announced he was going into ministry, but they supported his decision and commitment to obey God’s calling. He soon began working with the World Council of Churches in Youth Ministry.

Years later, while serving as secretary of the North East India Christian Council, Robert took on the role of coordinator for Billy Graham’s Crusade in Kohima, Nagaland. He and Mr. Graham remained good friends throughout their lives.

“His humble spirit and his single-minded commitment to evangelism never cease to inspire me,” said Billy Graham in his autobiography, Just As I Am.

A Heart for God’s People

In a country as large as India—with a population of 1.4 billion people—Cunville preached to crowds ranging from 300 to 200,000, yet his humility never faltered.

“The most incredible attribute of his life [was] his humbleness, his love for Jesus, and of course his ministry heart,” said David Bruce, director of the Billy Graham Archive and Research Center.

Cunville dedicated his life to reaching people around the world with the Good News—especially in India. But his ministry approach went beyond preaching to the masses. He cared deeply about the human condition, and his heart for people opened many opportunities to share Jesus Christ.

“Dr. Cunville was a powerful evangelist, and only God knows how many souls have been saved for eternity through his anointed ministry,” Will Graham said. “Despite his remarkable impact, … he did not want accolades, and he always elevated others above himself.”

Cunville was also a passionate teacher, supporting his fellow believers through evangelistic trainings, Bible conferences, and pastoral meetings.

“He would multiply his ministry … by training others,” said Bruce. “He has left in the wake of all he’s done extraordinary strength for the church.”