C. Richard Ewing, 92, of Bethlehem, died peacefully Dec. 4, 2022, in St. Luke’s Hospice House.

Born April 2, 1930 in Crossgrove Hall, 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 earned a Master’s in Education degree from Bucknell University.

He was as a ballistics specialist in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

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 onto 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, before 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.

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 and her actions toward 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 myriad 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 and Margaret Moser of McClure; brother Jerry Ewing of McClure; and many loving nephews and nieces, as well as his “honorary” sons and daughters.

He was predeceased by his loving wife; sister, Gayle Conner; and brother, Dalton Ewing.

Graveside services will be private.

Contributions may be made to World Vision Children’s Charity or to the Lehigh Valley Humane Society, c/o the funeral home, P.O. Box 52, Fogelsville, PA 18051.

Condolences may be offered at kellerfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements made by Keller Funeral Homes Inc., Fogelsville.