Morton "Morty" Hershman

Morton "Morty" Hershman, 93, of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, passed peacefully at his home on June 2, 2025.

Born on April 29, 1932, in Philadelphia, Morton lived a long and meaningful life, filled with deep love for family, community, and learning.

He shared 70 years of marriage with his beloved wife, best friend, and life partner, Evelyn. Together, they built a family and community that surrounded them, inviting friends into their lives wherever they traveled or called home. Morty was a proud and loving father to his daughters Judy (with partner Willis Daniels) and Sharon (with partner Richard Parenti), and the ever- present spirit of his son Walter, who is survived by his wife, Li Huan Li. He is remembered by his sister, Madeline Lander. Morty's heart lives on in his grandsons, Soufien, Laith, and Chad.

A natural storyteller, Morty could light up any room with his poetry, wit, scientific curiosity, song, and dance. Though he occasionally mixed up his kids' names and often got turned around in his sleepy little town, he never forgot a tale or a tune. His favorites became cherished family traditions—stories like "Herman the Lion" and "The Jabberwocky", songs such as "Scarlet Ribbon," "A Trinity of Sightless Rodents," "Indicate the Route to My Abode," and the family's Passover favorite, "Cigarettes and Whiskey."

His love of learning defined him. Morty was an accomplished food scientist and amateur philosopher to those lucky enough to join him in his thoughtful explorations—through Judaism, the Unitarian Church, and the Ethical Society. He sought meaning, asked big questions, and always made space for others to do the same.

We can still feel ourselves dancing the Lindy on our toes, Dad. Thank you for the dances, the wisdom, the stories, and the joy.