Obituary of Beth Ann Richey

Beth Ann Richey, 80, of Bridgeton passed away on Wednesday, September 27, 2023 at Spring Oaks-Vineland where she had been a resident the past 2 years. She was the daughter of the late Thomas Hemple and Dorothy (Richey) Hemple. Beth lived in Bridgeton most of her life. She began her education at South Avenue School and graduated from Bridgeton High School. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree at William Cary College in Hattiesburg, Mississippi and then enrolled in the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg where she attained her Master’s and Doctorate Degree in Education. Beth taught at Lower Alloways Creek School and later at King’s College in NYC. As Doctor Beth A. Richey, she continued her career in Egg Harbor Township where she taught for many years and was the developer and administrator of the Early Childhood Development Program before her retirement. She instructed extensive classes for Rowan University and was named the “Teacher of the Year” in 1995. Beth was also a member of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society, the Alpha Zeta group and was the State President from 1997–1999. Beth attended the First Bible Protestant Church in Bridgeton and Hopewell Crest Chapel. She served as a Counselor at Tri State Bible Camp, Montague Township, NJ, where she was voted “Outstanding Young Educator”. She loved her family and was a caregiver for her mother for several years. Her hobbies included collecting Cherished Teddies, making porcelain dolls and playing the piano. Beth is survived by brothers Thomas A. Hemple (Joan) of Fairfield Twp., Wayne Hemple (Donna) of Fairfield Twp., and Russell Hemple (LuAnn) of Millville and many cousins, nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her parents and her beloved pets Beauregard, Regard, Windsor, Tag and Winnie. Funeral Services will be held at 12 NOON, on Monday, October 9, 2023 at the PADGETT FUNERAL HOME, 1107 STATE HIGHWAY 77, UPPER DEERFIELD TWP. Friends will be received at the funeral home from 10AM to 12PM prior to the service. Interment will take place at OVERLOOK CEMETERY, 100 Overlook Dr., Bridgeton, following the service. Written condolences can be sent to the family through the funeral home website, www.padgettfuneralhomes.com.