Richard R. Thompson, 87, of Bethlehem, died peacefully at home on February 4, 2018.  He and his beloved wife, Ellen H. "Froy" Thompson, celebrated 63 years of marriage.  Born in Rochester, PA, Richard was the son of the late C. Vance and Josephine R. Thompson.  He was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem (PCUSA), where he served in many capacities, including Elder and Deacon. He graduated from Lincoln High School in Midland, PA, in 1948; from Antioch College with a BS degree in Geology in 1954; and from The Pennsylvania State University with a PhD in Geology in 1961.  He worked in the Research Department at Bethlehem Steel for 20 years, and then for BethEnergy, dealing with all aspects of coal and coke technology, marketing and sales. He was a Senior Fellow of the Geological Society of America (GSA), and he received lifetime recognition awards from both the GSA and the Ironmaking Division of A.I.M.E. for his contributions to coal geology and to the technology of coal and cokemaking. After he retired in 1994, he pursued many interests, including his faith, small group activities, enjoying music and the performing arts, volunteering, politics, a bit of golf, but especially quality time with his wife, daughter, and friends.

Survivors:  Wife Froy; daughter Jennifer A. Thompson of Lexington, KY; sister Elizabeth Ann Schaff of Fallbrook, CA; nephews John and Tom Schaff; Tom's children Cody and Spencer; and numerous cousins.

Services: A memorial service will be held at 11am Saturday, February 10, 2018 at First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem (PCUSA), 2344 Center Street, with a reception following the service.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem (PCUSA) or to a charity of your choice.