Remembering a pillar of the community, Richard A. Stitzel, who dedicated decades to compassionate funeral service. From his academic achievements to leading family businesses, his impact was profound. What do you remember most about those who build legacies in their hometowns?

The community mourns the passing of Richard A. Stitzel, a revered figure whose dedication to funeral service spanned decades. Mr. Stitzel, 81, a resident of Jupiter, Florida, and formerly of Lincoln Park and Wyomissing, peacefully departed on August 22, 2025, at Palm Beach Gardens Medical Center, leaving a significant legacy in his wake.

Richard’s personal life was marked by enduring companionship and family bonds. He was the devoted husband of Eileen L. (Muschko) Stitzel, whom he married in 2007. Prior to this, he shared a loving marriage with his first wife, Mary Anne (Kuhn) Stitzel, who passed away in 2004. He is survived by his beloved children, Amy L. Miller, Matthew J. Stitzel, and Meg B. Rosenberg, and was preceded in death by his daughter, Beth A. Donghia.

Born on October 1, 1943, in Reading, PA, Richard A. Stitzel was the son of the late William J. and Beulah A. (Naftzinger) Stitzel. His foundational education began at Hamburg High School, from which he graduated in 1961, setting the stage for a life committed to learning and professional development.

His pursuit of knowledge continued at East Stroudsburg State College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1966. Demonstrating a strong dedication to education, he furthered his academic journey at Kutztown State College, receiving a master’s degree in education in 1970. A pivotal shift occurred in 1979 when he graduated from the American Academy McAllister Institute of Funeral Service in New York City, distinguishing himself with the Faculty Award for Proficiency in Mortuary Arts and Sciences and the Mu Sigma Alpha National Fraternity Academic Achievement Award, truly establishing him as a leader in the funeral service industry and a distinguished funeral director.

In 1979, Richard joined the esteemed Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home, Inc., in West Reading, a family business where his expertise quickly made an impact. He served diligently as Secretary/Treasurer from 1981 to 2000, ascending to Vice President from 2001 until his retirement in 2005. His 26-year career was also characterized by active participation in various professional organizations, including a term as President of the Berks County Funeral Directors Association in 1985 and as District Governor of the Pennsylvania Funeral Directors Association from 1995 to 1999, highlighting his commitment as a dedicated community leader.

Even after a brief retirement, Richard’s entrepreneurial spirit and leadership skills shone brightly. In 2015, he assumed the presidency of Stitzel Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, Inc., overseeing operations in Laureldale and Oley. Under his guidance, the Stitzel Family Funeral Homes continued to uphold a tradition of compassionate care and professional excellence, solidifying his reputation within the community.

Beyond his professional achievements, Richard was a vibrant part of his community. He was a life member and integral figure in the Berks County Basketball Old Timers and co-chaired the Holy Name Extravaganza fundraiser in 1986 with his wife. He enjoyed memberships at Jonathan’s Landing Golf Club in Jupiter, FL, and was a faithful attendee of Jupiter 1st Church, having previously been a long-standing member and usher at Atonement Lutheran Church in Wyomissing, and a member of Berkshire Country Club in Reading.

Services to honor Richard A. Stitzel will be conducted on Saturday, August 30th, at 11:00 AM at Stitzel Family Funeral Homes and Crematory, Inc., located at 3300 Kutztown Road, Laureldale. Viewings for friends and family will be held on Friday from 6:00 – 8:00 PM and on Saturday from 10:00 – 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Following the service, interment will take place at Gethsemane Cemetery in Muhlenberg Township, marking his final resting place among other Pennsylvania obituaries.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that contributions be made to the Berks County Community Foundation, with a memo for Richard Stitzel, at 237 Court Street, Reading, PA 19601. These thoughtful donations will be used to establish a college scholarship, ensuring that Richard’s legacy of valuing education and supporting the community continues to benefit future generations, as detailed in this obituary.