Richard Ewing, 92, of Bethlehem, passed away peacefully on Sunday, December 4, 2022, at St. Luke's Hospice House. Born April 2, 1930 in Crossgrove Hall, PA, he enjoyed a childhood of country life, helping with his family's business, Ewing Hatchery. After a small stint as a short order cook in the U.S. Virgin Islands he saved enough money to be the first in his family to attend college, Bloomsburg University, where he was an education major.  He started his teaching career at Beaver Adams Elementary School, then went on to secure a Master's in Education degree from Bucknell University.  He served in the US Army during the Korean War as a ballistics specialist.  His time of training in Alabama exposed him to the realities of prejudice/racial injustices as he often shared how embarrassed he was when a young black couple stepped into the street and lowered their eyes in submission as he passed.  This wrongful violation of the rights of another human being haunted his soul.

After marrying another elementary school teacher, Jane Barry, he moved to the Lehigh Valley where he worked for the East Penn School District.  In total he spent 38 years sharing his love of learning with children.  He retired in 1992.

During his retirement he enjoyed collecting art and antiques and "shop sitting" at Antiques at the Old Church in New Hope, PA.  An avid reader, he devoured books and was a huge fan of "breakfasts out" at diners, his favorite meal. PBS and British television provided him with much enjoyment over the years.

A kinder and gentler man could not be found.  He was convinced one's true beliefs were reflected in his/her actions towards the care and support of the unfortunate and afflicted.  A man's so-called "riches" were not realized by monetary measures but rather by the genuine love and concern for fellow humans. He supported a myriad of charities, too numerous to list.  If he stopped at Wawa for a coffee and an apparently homeless person hovered outside, he quickly produced a $10 or $20 bill with, "Go and buy yourself a warm sandwich and coffee, you take care."  He was truly an agent for "Love in action."

Surviving him is his son Jonas Ewing of Bethlehem and his partner Stephen MacNeal, sisters, Evelyn Smeltzer of Lewistown, PA and Margaret Moser of McClure, PA; brother Jerry Ewing of McClure, PA, and many loving nephews and nieces, as well as his "honorary" sons and daughters.  In addition to his parents, he is predeceased by his loving wife, Jane, sister, Gayle Conner, and brother, Dalton Ewing.

Graveside services will be private.

In lieu of flowers , contributions may be made to World Vision Children's Charity or The Lehigh Valley Humane Society, c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box 52, Fogelsville, 18051.

Arrangements by Keller Funeral Homes, Inc., Fogelsville. Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.KellerFuneralHomes.com .