Reta H. Markish, 94, of York, went to be with the Lord on August 19, 2026, following a beautiful and full life.

Born in 1932 to Ray and Relda Trone, Reta grew up in West York. During World War II, she proudly helped her family by working at their local gas station. She graduated from West York High School in 1950 and went on to earn her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Millersville State University. Dedicated to lifelong learning and helping others, she later earned her Master’s Degree in Counseling in 1973. This launched her impactful 29-year career as a school counselor at Emory Markle Intermediate School in Hanover. She also advanced the field of education by serving on several boards for the Pennsylvania State Education Association (PSEA).

Reta was an incredibly talented musician. Her lifelong musical ministry began at the remarkable age of 11, when she became the church organist for Zion United Methodist Church. She served in that role with devotion for 55 years. As a lifelong member of Zion UM, she also taught Sunday School, held numerous leadership positions, and sang beautifully in the choir. She was honored to participate in the Bicentennial Celebration at the Strand highlighting York County’s premier pianists.

In her retirement, Reta channeled her vibrant energy and leadership into travel. Serving as the Travel Chairman for the York County School Retirees Association for 22 years, she organized and guided fellow members on adventures spanning all 50 states and more than 70 countries.

Above all, Reta was the proud matriarch of her family, sharing her sharp mind, musical gifts, and generous spirit with those she loved. Her legacy lives on through her three children, Carol Kauffman (Don), Brett Heidlebaugh (Jane), and William J. Heidlebaugh (Michelle); her stepdaughter, Marilyn Markish, her grandchildren, Stacia Krupa, Seth Heidlebaugh, and Evan Heidlebaugh; her great-grandchildren, Bailee Krupa, Noah Heidlebaugh, and Nathan Heidlebaugh; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members. She was preceded in death by her first husband, William G. Heidlebaugh; her husband, John Markish; and her beloved grandson, Ben Heidlebaugh.

Normandie Ridge and Serenity Hospice provided Reta with loving care and showed great compassion to her during this last phase of her life. The family is sincerely grateful for their unwavering care.

A celebration of Reta’s life will be held on Saturday, August 29, 2026, at the Madison Avenue Church of the Brethren, 645 Madison Avenue, York, PA. The service will begin at 2:00 PM. Family and friends are invited to a visitation period at 1:00 and immediately following the service. Memorial contributions may be made in Reta’s honor to Serenity Hospice, Normandie Ridge or the Madison Avenue Church of the Brethren.