Paul Edward Ritchey Sr.

Ritchey, Sr. NEW OXFORD Rev. Paul Edward Ritchey, Sr., formerly of Shiloh, passed away on Saturday, February 4, 2012, at the age of 83. Rev. Ritchey currently resided at Cross Keys Village, in New Oxford. Paul Ritchey was born to Marvin S. and Mildred L. (McFarland) Ritchey on April 26, 1928 in Everett, PA. Rev. Ritchey attended Manchester College for his BA. He received his Doctorate of Divinity from Bethany Theological Seminary, and a Master's Degree from the University of Pittsburg. He married Portia Baugher in 1954. They were married for 57 years. Paul served as pastor of the Claysburg and Pottstown Church of the Brethren. When they moved to York, Paul taught in the Dallastown School District for several years. He taught in the York High School District for 28 years. He was active in the York County Educators Assoc. and served as President for several years. After retiring, he continued to substitute in York County schools for 17 years. He served in many leadership positions in the Church of the Brethren in York County. Rev. Ritchey served as Co-Pastor of the Belvidere Church of the Brethren. He served as Associate Pastor, Moderator, Deacon, and Board member at the Madison Ave. Church of the Brethren. He sang in the choir and played in the bell choir. Paul was a leader and active member of the York County Democratic Club, the Western Democratic Club, and the Northern Democratic Club. He ran for the U.S. House of Representatives in 1986 and 1988. Paul was an avid organic gardener, was an active member of the PA Natural Living Association for many years. Rev. Ritchey served York County for 21 years as Chaplin of the York County Prison and Juvenile Detention Home. Through the years Rev. Ritchey provided help to inmates and their families. His support and generosity helped many inmates re-enter society after release. When Paul saw a need he tried to help and make a difference. Many people have been the recipients of Paul's care and generosity thru the years. He will be sorely missed. Paul, a loving father, is survived by five children, a daughter, Beth A. Ritchey Aikins of Pendleton, IN; four sons, Joseph M. Ritchey of Columbia, SC, Paul E. Ritchey, Jr., Timothy A. Ritchey and David L. Ritchey, all of York; and seven grandchildren; a sister, Wilma Clark of FL.; and three brothers, Virgil Ritchey of Lancaster, Harold Ritchey of Bangor and Donald Ritchey of WA. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Elsi and Alda; and a brother, Melvin. Funeral service will be held Thursday, February 9, 2012, at 1:00 p.m. from Madison Avenue Church of the Brethren, 645 Madison Ave., York. Officiating will be his pastor, the Rev. Keith Hollenberg, assisted by former pastor, Rev. Richard Godfrey. Final resting place will be in Mount Rose Cemetery, York. There will be a viewing from Noon to 1 p.m., prior to the service, at the church. Memorial contributions may be made to the Good Samaritan Fund, Cross Keys Village, 2990 Carlisle Pike, New Oxford, PA 17350. Arrangements were entrusted to the LeRoy R. Leber Funeral Home, Inc., York (Shiloh).