Stanley M. "Junior" Radcliffe, 87, lifelong resident of Mertztown, PA, passed away on Sunday, January 25, 2026 in Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest, Allentown, PA. He was the widower of Ruth M. (Moyer) Radcliffe who died on May 19, 2006.
Born in his family's home in Mertztown, Stanley was a son of the late Stanley W. and Dorothy K. (Dankel) Radcliffe. He was a graduate of Brandywine Heights High School, Topton, PA, class of 1956, the first graduating class from Brandywine Heights.
Since the age of 9, Stanley worked in the family grocery store, Radcliffe Brothers Grocery Store, in Mertztown, which was founded in 1933. Stanley became the co-owner of the family business and was instrumental to its success until his retirement in 2025, with over 75 years of commitment to his community. His warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his customers made him a staple in the lives of many.
In his younger years, Stanley was a Boy Scout in Longswamp. He also played and later coached for the Brandywine fast-pitch softball league. Though he lived a simple life, he enjoyed going to the casino and going out to eat, especially to Shady Maple and Chick-fil-A. He also enjoyed traveling to Wildwood and Wellsboro, and enjoyed rooting for the Phillies and Eagles. As a devoted family man, he nurtured bonds with each of his children, instilling values of honesty, hard work, and compassion.
Stanley's life was a testament to the power of community and family, leaving behind a legacy marked by generosity and neighborly spirit. He will be remembered for his open-hearted nature and his ability to make everyone feel welcome.
Stanley is survived by his seven children, Dirk T., husband of Eileen M. (McQuilken) Radcliffe, Mertztown, Daryl S. Radcliffe, companion of Judy A. Hobert, Mertztown, Todd J., husband of Samphan (Seesaisod) Radcliffe, Mertztown, Tina S. (Radcliffe), widow of Brian N. Isamoyer, Mertztown, Dodi A. (Radcliffe) Kemeter, Breinigsville, Dawn S. (Radcliffe), wife of Deron R. Hockman, Allentown, and Drew J., husband of Sloane (Miller) Radcliffe, Alburtis; sister, Robin C. (Radcliffe), wife of William R. Yellets, Mertztown; grandchildren, Jessica, Kayla, Elizabeth, Austin, Morgan, Jared, Emily, Maggie, Shawn, Allison, Rachel, Olivia, Christian, Carson, and Ian; and great-grandchildren, Lily, Sadie, Piper, Easton, Hudson, Madison, Luca, Lainey, Briggs, Rhys, and a baby great-grandson due in May. Along with his wife, parents and son-in-law, Stanley was predeceased by his great-grandson, Jackson T. Radcliffe; and brother, Ronald C. "Manny" Radcliffe.
A memorial service to celebrate and honor Stanley's life will be held on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. in St. Paul's Lutheran Church, 50 Luther Drive, Mertztown, PA, with The Reverend Dr. Jeremiah A. Sassaman officiating. Relatives and friends are invited to a visitation from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m. in the church.
The family requests contributions be made in Stanley's memory to Jackson's Journey c/o Melissa Mest, 18 Doe Ridge Dr., Fleetwood, PA 19522 or on their website, www.jacksonsjourney.net.
Ludwick Funeral Homes and Cremation Care, Inc, Topton and Kutztown, PA is in charge of arrangements. Memories and condolences may be shared by visiting Stanley's obituary tribute page at www.Ludwickfh.com.
Saint Paul's Lutheran Church
Saint Paul's Lutheran Church
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