Mount Joy History Mount Joy History
By Linda Eberly
Cover Image and Article Images
Courtesy of Mount Joy Historical Society
Something to learn right from the start —the name “Mount Joy” derives from an English surname, “Mountjoy.” One word.
Our story begins, once upon a time, in 1685, when Catholic James II became King of England, and a Protestant parliament opposed him vigorously. In 1688, after several years of tension and turmoil, James II’s Protestant daughter, Mary, and her husband, William of Orange, returned to the kingdom at the invitation of the disgruntled Parliament, causing James to abdicate and flee from England to France, and later to Ireland, which was a fortress of Catholicism. By 1689, Mary and William ruled Great Britain jointly.
Meanwhile, in Ireland, James received the backing of the Irish Catholics, and, after taking Dublin, continued marching north. Eventually, in April 1689, the Jacobite army arrived at Londonderry in northern Ireland. The city was held by Scottish Presbyterians, whose slogan in the defense of Londonderry was “No Surrender.” James and his army responded to that defiance
Main Street Before
Amatos Before
by waging siege warfare against the citizens, who remained trapped inside the walled city for 105 days.
By July 28, 1689, the besieged Scots were facing starvation, when three supply ships, protected by the frigate Dartmouth, sent by King William, sailed up the River Foyle, headed directly for the “boom” (a floating barrier of tree trunks, chains and assorted debris) that blocked access to the city. The first vessel to ram the boom was the armed merchant ship “Mountjoy,” loaded with provisions for the starving people of Londonderry. The Phoenix and the Jerusalem followed with more supplies, and the city was liberated.
Over the next 30 years, many of these same Scottish Presbyterians left Ireland and came to America, looking for religious freedom and land of their own.
One of the largest settlements was Donegal, in Lancaster County, and the Scot-Irish settlers commemorated important events and individuals in the names of their new towns and villages. Of particular meaning and reverence was Mountjoy, for the reasons cited, and there, again, is the 300-year-old story of how we got our name.
In the early 1800s, the original plantations granted in this region by William Penn were divided into smaller parcels, after which three main villages emerged. Mountjoy was the eastern section of today’s borough. Richland occupied the western part, and Springville, laid out in 1812, became the Florin Ward.
Four other small parcels developed between and around the three original villages: Wallickstown,
Borough Building Before
Twisted Bine Before
Mountjoy Continued, Richland Extended, and Richland and Mount Joy Connected. Now that’s a lot of names to remember, but fortunately, the confusion was all sorted out when, in 1851, the two main villages of Mount Joy and Richland, plus the other smaller hamlets, incorporated to form the Borough of Mount Joy. It took another hundred years to annex Florin, but in 1963, the borough of today was complete.
In conclusion, we are not a mountain. We are not abbreviated, as in “Mt. Joy.” We are an aristocratic English name, formerly one word (Mountjoy), but now two (Mount Joy). This explains the ship on the main street of a land-locked town, and the Scots-Irish names in the middle of Pennsylvania Dutch country.
Ours is a distinct and distinguished heritage —one that every Mount Joyian, past, present and future, can claim.
You may want to see more images of our fair town. We have several wonderful journals available for purchase at the historical society. Gone But Not Forgotten is a before and after photo essay featuring buildings that used to be part of our history but have for one reason or another been demolished. Also available is Mount Joy Memories, which highlights old pictures of businesses, buildings, and churches along Main Street.
Visit the historical society Sundays from 1-3 p.m. Join us for our programs, open to the public, every third Monday evening at 7 p.m. March through November.
Gus's Restaurant Before Borough Building Before
A Tradition of Service
One of the defining qualities of Mount Joy Borough is not only its rich history, but the way its residents consistently show up for one another. At the heart of that spirit is an extraordinary network of nonprofit and civic organizations that help shape the community in meaningful and lasting ways.
These groups serve as the quiet backbone of Mount Joy. They organize beloved annual events, preserve the stories and traditions that give the borough its character, support neighbors in times of need, and create welcoming spaces for people to connect. From service clubs and historical organizations to community groups and volunteerled initiatives, there are countless opportunities for involvement—and just as many individuals willing to give their time and energy.
Mount Joy is fortunate to have a wide range of organizations contributing in different ways. Local Scouting groups now part of Scouting America can often be found lending a hand at community events in addition to their regular programming. Veterans’ organizations play an important role in honoring those who have served, helping to ensure their contributions are recognized throughout the community. The Chamber of Commerce supports local businesses and helps strengthen the economic vitality of Mount Joy and the surrounding area. Service organizations such as the Lions Club and Rotary Club have, over the years, made lasting investments in parks, streetscapes, and other community enhancements that
residents continue to enjoy today.
What makes these organizations especially impactful is not just what they do, but how they do it. There is a genuine sense of connection woven through their efforts. It can be seen at community events filled with familiar faces, at fundraisers where neighbors come together around a shared cause, and in the many volunteer hours given freely and without recognition. Many individuals are involved in more than one organization, creating an even stronger network of relationships and deepening the sense of community across Mount Joy. These organizations help foster a strong sense of belonging for both lifelong residents and those new to the community.
It is important to note that not every organization can be listed or highlighted here. Mount Joy is home to many groups both large and small, formal and informal that each play a valuable role in strengthening the community. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps build the network of support, engagement, and pride that defines the borough. For a list of organizations, visit mountjoyborough.com and click on “Community Associations.”
As Mount Joy celebrates its 175th anniversary, it is fitting to recognize the vital role these nonprofit and civic organizations have played and continue to play in shaping the community. Their collective efforts serve as a reminder that a strong and vibrant community is built over time by people who care deeply and choose to get involved.
in Mount Joy
Rotary
Kids
Scout
Donegal
Cub
Capturing the Charm of Mount Joy
By Alex Grande
Photos by Alex Grande Photography
Some people describe Mount Joy as “quaint” or “charming,” but if you ask me, I would say “photogenic.”
I can find many reasons why I choose to document our town. The elegance of the
Victorian- and Colonial-style homes lining the street. The spring and fall colors that pop around town during the seasons. The people who come out and enjoy the numerous events the town hosts.
The inspiration to capture these moments of Mount Joy comes from a desire to slow down and appreciate the beauty that’s just outside my front door and around the corner.
The sign was dedicated in 1988—Joel Langdon was MJCOC president at the time. The sign is in memory of Arthur D. Sprecher, past president of the Chamber from 1982 to 1986.
“THERE’S NO WORK
By Michele Emenheiser, Executive Director of Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce
Photos Courtesy of
MJCOC
While researching the Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce archives for this article, I discovered so many ways the organization has changed and grown over the past 87 years while still keeping its core purpose of supporting members and connecting local businesses, civic organizations and the community.
This message comes from an undated Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce brochure; however, it reflects a truth that has carried through our town’s 175-year history.
“Perhaps no other place in America combines such inspiring beauty, so great a record of history, so vast a resource of nature and is the home of such gifted, hardworking people as is the town of Mount Joy and its surrounding area.
“Here in the fertile, rolling hills of Penn’s Woodlands, scattered with immaculate, prosperous farms, woven with sparkling streams, lies one of the very few ‘lands of opportunity for development.’
“Here in Mount Joy, Pennsylvania, is the ideal place for you, and your employees to work, live and enjoy life at its richest.”
In 1939, that belief in community and opportunity took shape with the founding of the Mount Joy Chamber of Commerce—built to support the very people and businesses described in these words.
On April 17 of that year, a Mount Joy Board of Trade meeting was held. Mr. C. H. Hunt of the PA State Chamber of Commerce shared the difference between a Board of Trade and a Chamber of Commerce. Dr. E. W. Garber moved to disband the Board of Trade and form a Chamber in its place, with Clarence Schock seconding the motion. At that time, the treasurer was Reuben Fellenbaum,
FINER PLACE TO LIVE, AND RELAX”
and Roy B. Sheetz was the temporary secretary. (Do these names sound familiar?) An Organization Committee of 15 was named, and 61 people were recorded as present— showing early on the strong interest in building something together.
In the weeks that followed, that momentum continued. Bylaws were developed, and membership dues were set at $5.
By June 19, 101 applications for membership had been submitted, a clear sign of the support for the new civic organization. Just days later, on June 23, the first Board was elected and committees were established, including Membership, Program, Industrial, Merchants, Transportation and Highways, Agriculture, Fire and Waste, Publicity, Finance, Youth Activity, and Town Planning—laying the groundwork for the Chamber’s role in supporting and connecting the local businesses and community.
Now, 87 years later, it’s fun to look back and wonder— what would we have been doing as Chamber members in those early days?
The answer: a lot of things that still feel familiar.
At the June 23, 1939, meeting, Simon P. Nissley was named director of the Publicity Committee—charged with spreading the word about Mount Joy and its businesses. Today, that role has a decidedly more whimsical successor. Mount Joy Minnie, the Chamber’s beloved groundhog ambassador, carries on that tradition through videos celebrating the town’s businesses, organizations, and events—racking up tens of thousands of views across the Chamber’s social media channels. It’s an audience Simon P. Nissley, in a world without television in the living room, could never have imagined.
At the same meeting, Clyde Gerberich was named as the director of the Youth Activity Committee. Reading through old meeting minutes, the Chamber frequently supported the local playground and school activities, along with the 4-H club. That support continues today with the scholarships that are awarded to students in the Donegal
School District and The Janus School. We also host the annual Spooktacular that takes place the fourth Friday of October. This is a popular community event that lets children safely trick-or-treat on Main Street, with local businesses and community organizations handing out candy and providing fun activities.
On October 30, 1939, the Christmas Decorating Committee proposed a contest for best-decorated home and business in Mount Joy. The prizes, $10.00 for first place, $5.00 for second place and $2.50 for third place, seem quaint, but adjusting for inflation those prizes today would be $233.00, $116.50 and $58.25. The Chamber continues bringing Christmas cheer to the community with the annual Visit With Santa, which is held at the Milanof-Schock Library.
At the December 11, 1939, meeting, “a delightful and splendid dinner” was served by caterer Eli Hostetter.
MJCOC Office Ribbon Cutting on June 26, 2009
Connecting during meals is just as important today as it was 87 years ago. Eli was then the owner of Hostetter's Banquet Facility, which became The Gathering Place when Jim and Joanne Pinkerton purchased the venue in 1986. The Chamber still meets there monthly for our luncheons.
In 1940, approval was given to have 300 rosters printed containing “members, committees, directors, etc.” This year, Engle Printing & Publishing Co., Inc. will print more than 10,000 copies of the Business Directory that will be distributed in the Merchandiser and also available at the Chamber office and Chamber events. The members at the time probably never imagined that 86 years later this directory would also be available on the internet. Computers at the time were massive, room-sized machines powered by thousands of vacuum tubes, not something you could put in your pocket.
At the January 13, 1942, meeting, Elizabethtown Area Chamber of Commerce president Paul Grubb was present, and cooperation between the two chambers on a project was discussed. That partnership continues today, with the chambers co-hosting mixers for Chamber members and a Community & Business Expo. This year’s expo will be held on Thursday, September 17, at Melhorn Manor, which is another Mount Joy Chamber member with a long history—the property dates back to 1750, and has been in the Melhorn family since 1919.
During the June 21, 1943, meeting, “Mr. Thos. J. B. Brown moved we sponsor a Band Concert, as suggested by Mr. Baughy, Director of the Mount Joy High School Band, during this summer.” The concert would be held on July 30. Several organizations have hosted music in the town through the years. Music in Memorial Park, now hosted by the Chamber, is a well-attended summer tradition, giving residents a chance to enjoy free music and food in a beautiful setting. This year will feature three Sundays of bands with a Mount Joy connection to honor the town’s anniversary.
While some things have changed through the years, the heart of the Chamber hasn’ t. What the archives make clear is that the Chamber has never really been about the Chamber—it’s been about the people and making connections. In Mount Joy’s 175th year, that’s still exactly what it’s about. Visit mountjoychamber.com or follow us on Facebook and Instagram to be part of the story in 2026 and beyond.
Mount Joy Minnie Groundhog Day
Visit With Santa
Growing Up in Mount Joy’s Parks A Full-Circle Journey
Photography and Story
by Barry Geltmacher, Parks Superintendent, Mount Joy Borough
When you grow up in a place like Mount Joy, the parks aren’t just places you visit—they become part of who you are.
Some of my best memories as a kid were made right here in our borough parks. I spent countless hours playing baseball at Kunkle Field, and I can still picture those long summer days like they were yesterday. Fishing was another favorite pastime, especially at what we used to call Sico Park—now Little Chiques Park.
One of my earliest and most meaningful memories is heading out with my dad when I was about four years old. We’d put a small fishing boat in at Little Chiques Park and make our way down to the old dam. Not long
after, in that same stretch of water, I caught the biggest trout of my life—a 24-inch brown. Moments like that stay with you, not just because of the catch, but because of who you shared it with. Looking back, those experiences shaped my appreciation for these spaces in a big way. We are truly blessed to have them.
Today, I have the privilege of helping care for the very parks I grew up enjoying. That’s something I don’t take lightly. Our goal is simple: to keep these parks in great shape so that others can enjoy them the same way I did—whether that’s playing ball, fishing, walking, or just spending time outside.
Over the years, I’ve seen some changes. Borough Park, in particular, has evolved quite a bit. Around 1970, there was a small baseball field where Kids Joyland sits today. I played peewee baseball on that field. There also used to be a concrete bandstand behind center field at
Kunkle Field, and for many years, the Mount Joy Jaycees hosted a carnival in Borough Park. Those are special memories.
At the same time, some traditions have remained strong. The New Era Tournament—now the LNP Tournament—has been played here for as long as I can remember. I even played in it back in 1976. We made it to the championship game but lost to Paradise. Even so, it’s something I’ll never forget, and it’s great to see that tradition continue.
My appreciation for the outdoors didn’t stop at parks—it extended into gardening as well. When I was a kid, just about everyone in the neighborhood had a garden. Spring onions were my favorite. These days, I especially enjoy seeing the wildflowers that come up every year in our parks. We’re into that season now, and if you take a walk along the creek, you’ll see them. It’s a simple thing, but it reminds you how much beauty is right here if you take the time to look.
For residents who want to keep their own spaces looking nice, my advice is pretty straightforward— mulch goes a long way. And one of the biggest ways
people can help us is by doing something small but meaningful: picking up trash when they see it. There are a few folks who do this regularly, and I want to say thank you. I notice, and it makes a difference.
Parks and green spaces are important because they give us a place to get outdoors in all seasons, without ever having to leave town. Whether it’s a walk, a ballgame, or just a quiet moment by the creek, these spaces belong to all of us. I always say, “Leave it better than you found it.” If everyone does that, we’ll be in good shape.
When I think about my work, I wouldn’t say I feel proud as much as I feel grateful. I enjoy seeing people out in the parks—families, kids, anglers, photographers—making their own memories. That’s what it’s all about. We’re lucky to have what we have here.
If I had to describe Mount Joy’s parks in one word, it would be wonderful. You can take a walk, catch a trout, watch a baseball game in what I believe is the best ballpark in Lancaster County, or even spot a great horned owl if you’re lucky. And the best part is, there’s still more to come.
That’s something to look forward to—for all of us.
Faith, Family and Community Faith, Family and Community
As a third-generation business owner of Rutt Insurance in Mount Joy, I have many memories of events and happenings over the years. Probably because I’m in the insurance business, some of my most vivid memories in town were regarding fires and floods. First was in 1986 at the Hi Lo store. Second was in 2007 on Valentine’s Day when 70 E Main caught on fire on a very cold night and the hydrants were frozen… We lost several buildings in the downtown till the fire department was able to get water. And third was the
fire at the fun fort and the pursuing community involvement to rebuild. Each time, we saw townspeople banding together to help the survivors and build back a little nicer than before.
The floods stand out because each avenue of exit from town seemed to be closed by high water except for Old Market Street by the LCCTC and Snyder Road by Wissler Motors. More than once, families were rescued from their cars… once by a helicopter flown all the way from New Jersey to help. These three storms were oddly separated by seven years each. Could 2032 be the next one? Each of these events, while marked by tragedy and loss, were moments of courage and strength.
In May of 2025 our agency celebrated 90 years in the community, and my son, Damian Rutt, graduated from college and joined the family business. It was a proud moment for me to see the next generation involved and interacting with the community members looking for care of their property and belongings as his father, his grandfather Jim Rutt, and great-grandfather B. Titus Rutt had done.
While the years fly by and the moments and storms of life pass with help of spreading the risk through insurance, I would remind each one reading this to consider that life is very short in the grand perspective, and eternal life insurance is a “policy” offered free for all, written in red by our amazing Creator’s son, the Lord Jesus Christ, who gave His life on Calvary’s cross. It didn’t end there, however, because days later He rose from the dead, conquering death, promising eternal life for those who put their faith and trust in Him. No expiration on that policy, and the premium was paid in full by His blood, shed for all who believe. May God bless and keep you and help us get to the 200th year.
Jamie Rutt
Marietta Notary & Messenger Service
Everence congratulates our Mount Joy community on this 175th anniversary milestone. We’re honored to have served and worked with the Mount Joy community for more than 25 years and look forward to continuing our journey together.
Charting your path, together.
With expert support and a full range of services from Everence®, you can build a financial future that reflects your values and goals. Take control of your finances and let Everence help you navigate your path to success. You can also strengthen your organization’s employee benefits suite with our group health and retirement solutions.
LEARN MORE Find out how we can help you meet your financial goals at everence.com/centralpenn or call 717-653-6662
Rooted in Community Since 1954
A lot has evolved since our first issue rolled off the press over 70 years ago.
But one thing hasn’t: Our commitment to serving our community with uplifting, local stories that matter.
From generation to generation, we’re honored to continue sharing the moments, milestones, and memories that make Mount Joy extraordinary.
It’s a Wild Borough!
When people think of wildlife, they often picture mountains, forests, or faraway parks—but here in Mount Joy, sometimes all you need to do is step outside.
Tucked between our homes, parks, and sidewalks is a surprisingly lively world of feathers, fur, and the occasional wagging tail. From the familiar flutter of backyard birds to the quiet ripple of fish beneath the surface at Little Chiques Park, nature has a way of reminding us that it’s never far away.
Of course, in Mount Joy, “wildlife” comes in all forms. It might be Hootie the Owl keeping a watchful eye over the park, or Mount Joy Minnie delighting crowds with a little help from her dedicated handlers. It might be a kindhearted moment—like Officer Mason Shelly helping rescue a baby raccoon and ensuring it made its way safely to Raven Ridge Wildlife Center. And sometimes, it’s simply the joy of community on full display: pups riding in style at the Fresh Brews of Mount Joy or a four-legged friend proudly dressed as a hot dog at Spooktacular.
These snapshots capture more than just animals—they reflect the character of our town. A place where nature and neighborliness go hand in hand, where even the smallest encounters can become lasting memories, and where there’s always something to notice if you take a moment to look.
Officer Shelly With Baby Raccoon
Photo courtesy of MJBPD
"Hot Dog" at Spooktacular
Photo by Alex Grande
Mount Joy Minnie Predicting Spring's Arrival
Photo courtesy of Mount Joy Area Chamber of Commerce
Fox
Photo by Sandy Wolfe Christian Fish
Photo courtesy of Donegal Fish and Conservation Association
Dogs in Wagon at Brewfest
Photo courtesy of YAH Brew Mount Joy Crane
Photo by Ken Newcomer Beaver
Photo by Ann Swartzbaugh
Hootie the Owl
Photo by Kathleen Griffey Harrison
The Gathering Place: A Legacy
In 1986, Joanne and I (Jim Pinkerton) purchased what was then known as Hostetter’s Dining Services from Bob and Mary Stoner. What we didn’t fully realize at the time was that we were not simply buying a business— we were becoming stewards of a cherished Mount Joy tradition.
Last year, we celebrated our 39th year in business, along with our 54th wedding anniversary. That still amazes me—there was a time not long ago when I didn’t even know anyone that old… and now, here I am!
The roots of The Gathering Place stretch back to 1939, when Eli “Pop” Hostetter opened the original “Hostetter Banquet Room,” which remains our main dining room today. Pop worked as a janitor at Mount Joy High School and supplemented his income by catering from his home on North Barbara Street. His work ethic and commitment to the community laid the foundation for what would become a beloved local institution.
When Pop retired, four of his children—Jim, Lester, Paul, and Mary—along with their spouses—Marcelene, Helen, Almeta, and Bob—carried on the family tradition of hospitality. Eventually, Mary and her husband, Bob, became sole owners, continuing to serve the Mount Joy community for another 15 years before retiring.
At the time we entered the picture, Joanne had already built a reputation for baking wedding and specialty cakes and had developed a wholesale bakery line for local stores, including Herr’s Market in Marietta. We were raising our two sons, Christopher and Kevin, while Joanne pursued her associate degree in Food Service Management at Harrisburg Area Community College. Meanwhile, I was working for M&M Mars, and my cooking experience had been “refined” through years of cooking with Boy Scouts in the woods—though admittedly, a few adjustments were needed!
HAM LOAF SWEET & SOUR GLAZE
Ingredients
½ cup apple cider vinegar
½ cup water
1 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground mustard
Instructions
1. Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
2. Combine 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with enough water to make slurry.
3. Gradually add to hot liquid and cook over medium heat until thickened.
4. Pour hot glaze over ham loaf.
Our introduction as the new owners came at a Chamber of Commerce annual banquet, where Lester Hostetter presented us to the community. We were the first owners outside of the Hostetter family, and we quickly came to understand the responsibility that came with that role.
Thankfully, we were not alone. Paul and Lester Hostetter provided invaluable guidance during those early years, and Mary and Bob generously shared their knowledge—including how to prepare Hostetter’s famous fried chicken, ham loaf, fried oysters, coleslaw, and Southernbrewed sweet iced tea. They also taught us how to efficiently serve hot meals to groups both small and large— sometimes up to 150 guests at a time.
Over the past four decades, we have had the privilege of hosting nearly every type of gathering imaginable: baby showers, baptisms, graduations, engagements, weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and funerals. We welcome club meetings, training seminars, sports banquets, company holiday parties, and countless family gatherings.
Community organizations such as the Mount Joy Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, Lions Club, Leisure Club, Christian Women’s Club, BPW, Gideons, and the Elizabethtown Flower Club have all played an important role in our journey. Hostetter’s Dining Services and The Gathering Place has served four generations of Chamber members and Rotarians. In 2015, The Gathering Place participated in the Rebuild of Kids Joy Land by preparing continental breakfasts, lunches, and dinners for 1,200 volunteers during the weeklong construction.
From 1989 to 2015, we opened our doors to the public with Sunday and holiday buffets. On Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Thanksgiving, we often served as
of Hospitality in Mount Joy
many as 600 guests between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.— a true celebration of community and togetherness.
Perhaps the most meaningful moments for us have been witnessing life come full circle. We have hosted 50th and 75th wedding anniversaries for couples who originally celebrated their weddings here when it was still Hostetter’s. We have welcomed their children and grandchildren for weddings of their own. And we have stood with families during their most difficult times, hosting Celebration of Life gatherings that honor those same individuals.
In reflecting on the past 40 years, we have attributed our success to our dedicated, caring, and professional staff, along with our loyal customers who have supported us every step of the way.
It is in these relationships that we are reminded The Gathering Place is more than a venue—it is exactly what its name represents: a place where lives intersect, memories are made, and community is strengthened.
As Mount Joy celebrates its 175th anniversary, we are deeply grateful to have been a small part of its story— and even more honored to have shared in the lives of so many who call this community home.
BAKED CORN PUDDING
Ingredients
2 lbs of frozen corn
6 Tbsp all-purpose flour
2 Tbsp sugar
1 tsp salt
4 large eggs
1½ cups milk
¼ cup melted butter
Instructions
1. Thaw frozen corn and grind in food processor.
2. Add dry ingredients (flour, salt, sugar) and mix until incorporated.
3. Add eggs and incorporate.
4. Add milk and melted butter and incorporate.
5. Pour into a buttered baking dish.
6. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-60 minutes, until mixture is set and firm.
More than a dealership, the Hondru Experience is everything you expect it to be and
Mount
Serving Western Lancaster County Communities for Over 125 Years
Alvin C. Scheetz, a carpenter from East Petersburg, was asked to make wooden caskets for local families. In 1899, Alvin became licensed and opened The Sheetz Funeral Home in East Petersburg.He began a family tradition serving the community for four generations.
In 1921, Alvin’s son Roy Sheetz opened a second Sheetz Funeral Home at 16 East Main Street in Mount Joy. That same year, Roy married Rebecca H. Siegrist Sheetz. Together, they had two sons, Gerald and Richard.
Gerald R. Sheetz continued the family tradition as the third generation serving the community. In 1949, he married Mary Reich Sheetz. Jerry and Mary were known for their compassion, integrity, and respect, which shaped their work. In 1951, they opened their business in Mount Joy. In 1968, Jerry moved back to his birthplace on Main Street, Mount Joy.
Jonathan R. Sheetz Supervisor • Andrew Dieck Licensed Director • Josh Keith Licensed Director
Jonathan R. Sheetz joined Sheetz Funeral Home in 1987, becoming the fourth generation of his family to serve the Mount Joy community as a funeral director. Jon works closely with families to find meaningful ways to honor their loved ones.
Today, Sheetz Funeral Home is led by a caring and dedicated team. Andrew Dieck, who joined the firm in 2010, is now the principal manager and a licensed director committed to helping families with professionalism and care. Josh Keith, also a licensed director, is known for his genuine empathy in supporting families during difficult times. Joan Rutt, our Family Advocate, assists families before, during, and after services, ensuring everyone feels heard and cared for throughout the process.
In 2024, Andrew Dieck became principal manager of Sheetz Funeral Home Inc., taking over from Jon. Andrew now oversees daily operations and leads the team in serving families with care and professionalism. Jon continues as Supervisor, supporting Andrew and sharing his experience as a fourth-generation funeral director. Together, they carry on the Sheetz family’s tradition of respectful and compassionate service.
Services Are Meaningful
“Our Mission Focus” 16 East Main Street • Mount Joy www.sheetzfuneralhome.com
Alvin Sheetz
Roy B. Sheetz
Joan Rutt
Gerald Sheetz
