Ellsworth, Rev. Richard D.

1925 - 2021

Richard D. Ellsworth (Rev) went to be with the Lord on August 25, 2021. Rev was born to Perry and Seville Ellsworth on July 16, 1925, in Cleveland, Ohio. He and his two brothers, Perry and William, proudly served in the United States Army during World War II. Rev served in both

the European and Pacific

Theaters. Following the war, Rev completed his training as an engineer at Case Institute of Technology, graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1950. He worked as a

field and research engineer

at Borden Dairy and Ice Cream Co. and Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus before being called to the ministry. He also met his beloved wife, Linda, whom he married in 1950. He and Linda answered Gods call to the ministry in 1956. He graduated from Trinity Lutheran Seminary in June, 1960, and continued to serve as a pastor for

the rest of his life. He first served as a student pastor at three small churches near Lithopolis, Ohio, then moved to Central College Presbyterian Church in Westerville, Ohio, where he remained for 48 years. After retirement, Rev was called to serve as a supply pastor at Newark First and Lancaster Presbyterian Churches. Revs ministry was bold and adventurous. Among his adventures were mission trips to Honduras, three pulpit exchanges in Scotland, youth retreats, Easter sunrise services at Hoover Dam, and many more. Rev seemed to have boundless energy and enthusiasm. He was proud to serve as Chaplain for the Columbus Division of Police and Fire. In 1991, he was appointed as Chaplain for the Ohio State Highway Patrol. He continued to work as Chaplain for OSHP for 30 years, reluctantly re

tiring from official duties on

May 24, 2021. The Patrol family was and continues to be a strong source of friendship and support to Rev and his entire family. Rev loved his family. Pa, as he was affectionately known, was extremely generous. He and Nana took many trips with their children and grandchildren and eagerly shared their wisdom and resources. He especially enjoyed camping and trips to Cedar Point. Though Pa was often busy serving others, his family

time was a priority filled

with great love and support.

His heart was broken with the death of Linda and his daughters Beth and Penny. He is survived by his daughters, Pam (Jim) Miller, Jennifer Turick; son, Pete (Sarah) Ellsworth; grandchildren, Steve (Sarah) Wick, Moriah Turick, Elise (Matt) Carroll, Luke (Hana) Walker, Nate Miller, Ashley Ellsworth, Anna Elsworth, Amanda (Jaden) Sallee, Abigail and Emily Ellsworth; brother-in-law, Charles Wells; 10 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his brothers and sisters in Christ, his law enforcement family, and countless friends and neighbors. It is quite impossible to adequately list his accomplishments and the ways he impacted the lives of others. He lived his life to the fullest. When faced with a challenge, he always said, Its not why we cant, but how we will. Please direct memorial gifts to Central College Christian School (CCCS) Scholarship Investments. Visitation will be at Moreland Funeral Home, 55 E. Schrock Road, Westerville on Friday, September 3, 5-8PM. A Celebration of Life will be held at Central College Presbyterian Church, 975 S. Sunbury Road, Westerville on Saturday, September 4, 11AM, followed by a graveside service at Blendon Cemetery and reception at the church.