Obituary of Richard Davidson , 80

Richard M. “Wit” Davidson, 80, of Bellefonte, died on Saturday, August 22, 2015, at home, surrounded by his loving family. Born October 2, 1934, in Boggs Township, Centre County, PA. He was the son of the late James S. and Alberta Lucas Davidson. His beloved wife of 59 years, Dorothy, survives at home. Also, surviving is a son, Thomas L. (Elizabeth M.) Davidson, of Bellefonte and a granddaughter, Lauren E. Davidson, also of Bellefonte.

Wit was a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews. He is survived by a niece, Kathy Benedict, and a nephew, Mark Davidson, children of his deceased brother, Gilbert M. Davidson. He developed close relationships over the years with his nephew, Robert Elder, niece Jodi Gill Gates, and her husband George Herrold.

Wit was a 1952 graduate of the Bellefonte High School. He worked at Sutton Engineering for over 50 years in various positions until his retirement in 2005 as Director of Purchasing.
He was always ready to help anyone in need, with a cheerful smile on his face.

He was a member of the Bellefonte Army National Guard from 1954-1958. He was a member of the Faith United Methodist Church in Bellefonte. He was a Past Exalted Ruler of the Bellefonte Benevolent Protective Order of the Elks Post #1094, from 1982-1983. He also served as Trustee of the Elks Club for many years.

He was a member of the Bellefonte Masonic Lodge and Past Master of the Bellefonte Masonic Lodge in 1998 and a member of the following; Royal Arch Chapter #21, Constans Commandery #33, Tall Cedars, Jaffa Shrine, of Altoona, PA, and the Centre County Shrine Club.
He was a longtime member of the Historic Bellefonte Cruise Committee. He was a member of the Milesburg Museum and served as Trustee for many years, as well as a member of the Bellefonte American Legion.

There will be a public visitation held Wednesday, August 26, 2015, from 6pm until 8pm, and also Thursday, August 27, 2015 from 10am until 11am, the time of the service, both being held at the Faith United Methodist Church in Bellefonte. During the Wednesday evening visitation there will be an Elks Memorial service held at 8pm directly followed by a Masonic Service.

Funeral services will be held Thursday, at 11am, at the church with the Rev. Andrew Morgan officiating.

Burial will follow at Centre County Memorial Park in College Township.