Raymond P. Beeson

age 82 of Green Tree (formerly Dormont) died Wednesday, September 20, 2023.  

He was born on August 5th, 1941 to Thelma and Edgar Beeson in Banksville. He attended Dormont High School, Edinboro University (BA in Secondary Education) and the University of Pittsburgh (Master of Library Science). He married his high school sweetheart, Gail and they were together for 45 years until she passed away in 2008. 

Ray was an oft’ favorite English teacher at Keystone Oaks High School where he was known for his warmth, wit, and style. He was passionate about theater and dance and brought his knowledge and talent to many productions throughout the years. Always an avid reader, he finished out his teaching tenure as a middle school librarian. He reluctantly retired in 1999 and filled his days with volunteering at local libraries. Ever active, he spent many of his summers as the Stage Manager at the Three Rivers Arts Festival.

He loved swimming at Dormont pool, dark chocolate, a good mystery, cruises, any and all broadway musicals, New York City, dancing, a good crossword puzzle, Paco Rabanne cologne, a well-packed suitcase, liver and onions and painting watercolors of old barns. He loved people, they loved him and he was charming ‘till the end.

Ray is survived by his children Janis Eberle and her partner Basil Dilly, T.R. Beeson, and Kelley Beeson and her partner Stephen Fuegi; his sister-in-law, Cheryl Herrington; his grandchildren Justin Metzger, Jeff Metzger, Josh Metzger and Jenna Robbins; and his great-grandchildren Joey, Dylan Jr., Brantley, Aubree, and Dallas.

Friends will be received at the Unitarian Universalist Church of The South Hills, 1240 Washington Rd. Pittsburgh, PA 15228, on Tuesday September 26 from 6:00 PM until 7:00 PM at which time a Memorial Service will begin. The service will be simulcast for those who can't make it. ALL are welcome! 

In lieu of flowers, please donate to your local library - wherever you live. Ray would love to know that libraries were getting much needed support in his honor. 

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