The Rt. Rev. Paul Victor Marshall
The Right Rev. Paul Victor Marshall, former Bishop of Bethlehem, died Oct. 21, 2024, at home.
Born in New York City and raised in Lancaster County, Bishop Marshall lived a life devoted to faith, education and service.
He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Concordia College in 1969 and his Master of Divinity degree from Concordia Seminary in 1973.
He taught at Lutheran High School in Minneapolis and served St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisc., as well as serving as a chaplain in the U.S. Army Reserve.
In 1978, he was ordained deacon and then priest in the Episcopal Church.
He earned his Doctor of Theology degree from General Theological Seminary in 1982.
Throughout his life, Bishop Marshall shared his passion for parish ministry, education and music.
He served in various roles, including rector of Christ Church in Babylon, N.Y., rector of St. James Episcopal Church in New Haven, Conn., professor at Yale Divinity School, and acting director of the Yale Institute of Sacred Music.
His leadership was formally recognized when he was elected the eighth Bishop of Bethlehem in 1995, a position he held until his retirement in 2013.
Over his career, he authored eight books and numerous articles and reviews.
Under his guidance, the Diocese of Bethlehem forged a meaningful partnership with the Diocese of Kajo-Keji in South Sudan, supporting the development of schools and a college.
His commitment to education and humanitarian work left a lasting legacy in both the United States and abroad.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years Diana, his son Nicholas, and his daughter Hilary (Brian) Sullivan.
A devoted grandfather to Madeleine and Charlotte, he is also survived by his sister, Frances (Timothy) Lausch, and 10 nieces and nephews.
He will be remembered for his kindness, dedication to service, and the indelible impact he had on the lives of those he touched.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to St. Margaret’s Episcopal Church or LVHN Hospice, both 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.