Richard Alan Heath

Richard Alan Heath, 76, of Havertown, passed away peacefully at home on September 2, 2022, two days before his 77th birthday. 

 

Richard was born in Roxborough on September 4, 1945 to the late Alice (Maslin) and John William Heath Sr. He graduated from Roxborough High School and Tyler School of Art at Temple University, and went on to earn a master’s degree in education from Temple University. He was an art teacher for 30 years in the School District of Philadelphia, teaching many years at Woodrow Wilson Junior High until his retirement in 1999.

 

He was an active Freemason and long-time member of Palestine-Roxborough Lodge #135 where he served as Worshipful Master during its 200th anniversary year in 2013. He was also a member of Hackenburg-Mt. Moriah Lodge #19, LuLu Shriners, Scottish Rite, and Delco Grotto. He enjoyed the history, tradition, and brotherhood of the Masons, first joining DeMolay in his youth before following his father and several ancestors into the Blue Lodge.

 

An avid Philly sports fan, Rich enjoyed watching the Phillies, Eagles, Sixers, Flyers, and the Union. He loved watching his kids and grandkids play their sports. He was an occasional golfer and frequent watcher of golf tournaments. He had talent in photography, watercolor, and pen and ink drawing, and created an epic train and village display each holiday season. He especially enjoyed reading history and historical fiction, travel with his wife and family, ice cream, and a nice glass of scotch.

 

He is survived by his loving wife of 49 years, Ellen (Coltun) Heath; daughters Laura Ellis and Rebecca Oviedo and son-in-law Luis Oviedo; grandchildren Justin, Keira, and Elias; his brother Bill Heath and his wife Emily; nephews Freddy and Alex Heath, and many cousins. He was Rich, Dad, G-Pop, Brother, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

 

Relatives and friends are invited to his Memorial Service and Masonic Service on September 16 at 1:00 pm at Joseph Levine & Sons, 2811 West Chester Pike, Broomall, PA 19008. Family will begin receiving guests at 12:15 PM.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children (http://www.shrinerschildrens.org) or a charity of your choice.