Robert L. Short, known for the study of religion through popular culture, died July 6 after a brief illness. He was 76.

Born in Midland, Texas, Short is perhaps best known for his The Gospel According to Peanuts. Upon its release in 1965, the book became the top nonfiction best-seller in the U.S., selling more than 10 million copies in 11 languages. It was lauded by The New York Times Book Review as "a ‘perilous experiment' that comes off" and earned the admiration and respect of Peanuts creator Charles M. Schulz.

"Bob showed that a thoughtful exploration of popular culture through a theological lens could help us all gain a deeper understanding of both religion and culture," said David Dobson, editorial director of Westminster John Knox Press. "In addition to his many books, Bob was a true friend to the press and a joy to be around. His humor, thoughtfulness and generosity of spirit will be greatly missed."

Short also worked in commercial and religious television as a professional actor. He received a master of divinity degree from Southern Methodist University, a master of arts in English from the University of North Texas and a master of arts in theology and literature from The University of Chicago. In 2001 he moved to Little Rock, Ark., where he founded the Fellowship of "Christianity Without Doom or Gloom." An ordained Presbyterian minister, he traveled throughout the country, presenting programs in Christian faith and the arts.

Short's other books include The Parables of Peanuts; A Time to Be Born-A Time to Die; Something to Believe In; The Gospel From Outer Space; Short Meditations on the Bible and Peanuts; The Gospel According to Dogs; and The Parables of Dr. Seuss.