James Richard "Dick" Lumley

James Richard “Dick” Lumley, age 86, passed away peacefully on Friday, May 30, 2025, in Uniontown.

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, and coach, Dick lived a life defined by quiet strength, humble service, and an unwavering commitment to shaping the lives of young people. He made Meadville his home for over 50 years—a community where his legacy as an educator and coach remains deeply rooted.

Born on February 5, 1939, in Tionesta, Richard was the beloved son of Gail and Leora (Montgomery) Lumley. He graduated from West Forest High School in 1956 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Health Education from Slippery Rock University in 1960. Driven by a passion for learning, he later completed a Master of Education with advanced study in Biological Science from Penn State University in 1966.

On August 4, 1962, Richard married the love of his life, Martha K. Ruben, at Calgary United Presbyterian Church in Donora. The ceremony was officiated by Martha’s brother, The Reverend John Ruben. Their remarkable union spanned nearly 63 years and was blessed with two daughters, Kathryn Gwynne and Sarah Gail, born in 1970 and 1971 respectively. Richard began his career in education in 1960 as a biology teacher at Townville High School, where he also coached football, wrestling, and track. His path later led him to Meadville High School (1963-67) and Keystone Oaks High School in Pittsburgh (1967-71), before he returned to Meadville—where he truly belonged—and remained for the duration of his career. Even after his official retirement from teaching in 1998, his dedication to mentoring young athletes continued when he was called upon to lead the wrestling program at Cochranton High School. It was there that he achieved his 400th career coaching win, becoming only the seventh wrestling coach in Pennsylvania history to reach that milestone. Throughout his long and decorated coaching career, Richard started the wrestling programs at both Townville and Meadville High Schools. His accolades include being named PIAA Coach of the Year in 1983, induction into the Pennsylvania Wrestling Coaches’ Association Hall of Fame in 1989, ten consecutive years as District 10 Coach of the Year, and membership in the Erie Metro Sports Hall of Fame. He coached countless district, regional, and state champions—but what mattered most to “Coach Lum” were the young lives he touched, mentored, and uplifted. Former students and athletes continue to share stories of how his guidance changed the course of their lives. One very special group of his athletes in the 80’s were not only incredibly successful but also like family, terming themselves the “Lads of Lumley.” He lived the truth of UCLA Coach, John Wooden’s words: “A coach will impact more young people in a year than the average person does in a lifetime.”

Dick leaves a legacy not just of victories, but of values instilled and futures shaped. Beyond the classroom and the gym, Richard lived a rich and meaningful life. He was a long-time member of the Vernon Township Lions Club and the Alpha Phi Omega Boy Scouts of America Fraternity. In retirement, he turned his love of craftsmanship into a furniture restoration business, which he and Martha expanded into R & M Antiques, a shop they ran together on their property. He found joy in fishing, golfing, and traveling across the country with his wife and daughters. Summers were often spent exploring America’s natural wonders and historical treasures, creating memories that now live on in the hearts of his family.

Richard is survived by his loving wife, Martha Ruben Lumley; his daughters, Katie Lumley (Kevin Breter) of Erie, and Dr. Sarah Lumley (Gabriel Marte) of Uniontown; and his cherished grandchildren: Gwyneth Hamilton, Liam Pohl, Ian Hamilton, and Abram Pohl.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Gail and Leora Lumley, and sisters, Anne (Lumley) Zuendel and Mary Jane (Lumley) McCreary.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Richard’s remarkable life at the following services: Visitation will be held on Friday, June 6 from 2-4 PM and 6-8 PM at STEPHEN P. MIZNER FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES, INC., 404 CHESTNUT ST., MEADVILLE. Visitation will also be held there from 10-11 AM on Saturday, June 7, where Funeral Services will follow at 11 AM, with Rev. Kendra Balliet officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Richard’s name may be made to Meadville Area High School Wrestling Boosters, C/O MASH 930 North Street or Meadville Medical Center Foundation, 736 Liberty St., both in Meadville, PA 16335.

Share a memory or condolence at www.miznerfuneralhome.com