Barry L. Erb

Barry L. Erb, 85, of Ephrata, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 10, 2026, at Moravian Manor in Lititz. Born in Lancaster, Barry was the son of the late Russell R. and Verona Rickert Erb.

Barry shared a loving and devoted marriage with his wife, Marilyn Richmond Erb. This June, they would have celebrated their 49th wedding anniversary together — a partnership marked by faith, family, laughter, and unwavering support.

A 1958 graduate of Warwick High School, Barry went on to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation from Western State of Colorado. Education and mentorship became lifelong callings for him, and in 2001 he retired after more than 31 years as a Physical Education teacher in the Ephrata School District. Long before retirement, however, Barry had already become a beloved and familiar presence in the Ephrata community. In his younger years, he served as Assistant Recreation Director for the Ephrata Recreation Center and later worked as personnel manager at the former Zinn’s Diner.

For Barry, coaching was never simply about wins and losses. It was about building character, teaching discipline, encouraging teamwork, and helping young people believe in themselves. Over the course of his life, he coached countless children and young adults, leaving a lasting impact on generations of athletes and students. He served for more than 26 years as Ephrata High School’s swim coach, becoming the longest-tenured swim coach in the school’s history. He also coached girls swimming for the Lancaster YMCA from 1968 through 1978 and was a varsity football coach at Ephrata High School from 1969 through 1980. During the summers, Barry was a familiar face at the Ephrata Pool, serving as pool manager for many years and coaching summer swim teams from 1966 through 1978. Many remember him not only as a coach, but as a mentor who pushed others to work hard, compete honorably, and carry themselves with integrity both in and out of the pool.

Faith and service were cornerstones of Barry’s life. He was a devoted member of the Lititz Moravian Congregation, where he faithfully served in many roles over the years, including on the Board of Elders, as a Diener, usher, greeter, and volunteer for the Power Pack program. He quietly lived out his faith through acts of kindness, generosity, and service to others.

Outside of work and coaching, Barry found joy in life’s simple blessings. In earlier years, he loved hunting, camping, and spending time at the hunting cabin in Juniata County. He was an avid gardener whose overflowing vegetable garden often became a blessing to neighbors, friends, and family alike. Whether sharing fresh produce or “canning up a storm,” Barry loved providing for others. He was also a loyal sports fan who could often be found cheering on Penn State Football and the UConn women’s basketball team.

Above all else, Barry was a family man and a servant-hearted friend. He gave freely of himself to his family, his church, his community, and especially to the thousands of children whose lives he influenced over the years. He had a remarkable ability to see the good and potential in others and genuinely wanted people to succeed. His encouragement, steady presence, and caring spirit will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Surviving in addition to his wife, Marilyn, is a daughter, Karen L. Erb of Lancaster, two sons: Benjamin A. husband of Juni Erb of Hammonton, NJ., Douglas R. Erb husband of Katie Chaffinch of Lancaster, two grandchildren: Logan Erb, Isabella Erb, and a nephew, Christopher Dietz. Preceding him in death is a sister, Rochelle Dietz.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Barry’s Memorial Service from the Lititz Moravian Church, 8 Church Square, Lititz, on Thursday, May 21, 2026 at 11:00 AM with visitation in fellowship hall starting at 10:00 AM until the time of the service. Interment will be private in the adjoining church cemetery. In lieu of flowers contributions may be sent in Barry’s memory to: Lititz Moravian Book of Remembrance, 8 Church Square, Lititz, PA 17543.