Lorraine E Harvilla

Dr. Lorraine E. Harvilla, 92, of Kutztown, died Monday, March 21, 2011 in the Kutztown Manor. She was the wife of the late Andrew Harvilla.

Born in Delano, PA, she was a daughter of the late William and Franny (Smith) Rhoads. She was a member of St. Paul’s United Church of Christ, Kutztown. Lorraine was Valedictorian of her class, graduating in 1936 from Delano High School. She earned her State Limited Certificate from Kutztown University in 1938, and her Bachelor’s degree in 1948, majoring in Elementary education. She then went on to earn her Master of Education Degree with an emphasis on reading instruction from Pennsylvania State University in 1957, and Doctor of Education from Pennsylvania State University in 1965. She taught at many schools and universities, including a one room school house, from 1940 until her retirement at Kutztown University in 1979. Lorraine published writings in numerous reading instructional journals from 1964 to 1976. She was a former member of Pi Lambda Theta, an honorary society for women in education, National council of teachers in English, International Reading Assn., Keystone State Reading Assn., Delta Kappa Gamma, National Education Assn., American Assn. of University Professors, numerous reading associations, and several others. Lorraine was also a member of Delano Fire Company, and an avid Parcheesi player.

She is survived by Sister, Martha “Tootie” (Rhoads) widow of Charles Long, Salem, NJ., several nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and many friends. She was predeceased by Sisters, Rosanna (Rhoads) Dietrich, Leah May (Rhoads) Clemens and a Brother, David Rhoads.

A celebration of Lorraine’s life will be held Friday, March 25, 2011 at 11:30 AM in Lamar Christ Funeral Home, 31 Mahanoy Avenue, Tamaqua. Interment in Skyview Memorial Park, Hometown, PA. Friend may call Friday from 10:30 to 11:30 AM in the funeral home.

The family requests contributions be made to Multiple Sclerosis Society, 230 North 5th Street, Reading, PA 19609. Arrangements are by the Ludwick Funeral Home, Kutztown, PA.