Dr. David G. Bird

David G. Bird, 88, of Lancaster, PA, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Lancaster General Hospital, surrounded by his family. Born in Pittsburgh, PA, he was the son of the late Robert A. Bird and Alice (Orton) Bird. He was the loving husband of Pauline S. Bird, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage. Dave dedicated his life to education, inspiring future generations of teachers throughout a distinguished career. Dave earned his Bachelor’s at Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Master’s and Ph. D at the University of Pittsburgh, where he taught for six years before joining the faculty at Millersville University, teaching Elementary and Early Childhood Education for more than 30 years until his retirement. Upon his retirement, he was awarded the distinguished title of Professor Emeritus of Elementary and Early Childhood Education. A respected educator and active community member, Dave was a member of numerous professional organizations through service on the boards of the Lancaster County United Way, the American Red Cross of Lancaster County, the Loyalty Day Committee, Landis Valley Museum, the Parish Resource Center, and the Lancaster Day Care Center. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the education field, he was honored by the Lancaster Area Association for the Education of Young Children as the Outstanding Early Childhood Educator of the Year. In retirement, Dave continued volunteering for organizations including First United Methodist Church, Lancaster, PA, serving on many committees. He served on the board of directors for the American Coaster Enthusiasts (ACE) for many years, editing their in-house magazine, coordinating the membership, and planning for the annual Coaster Con gathering. For his many contributions, ACE granted Dave an Honorary Lifetime Membership. He also volunteered for The Cadets Drum and Bugle Corps, helping out wherever needed, whether it was in the office, selling tickets at shows, or packing CDs/DVDs for shipping. He was nicknamed “Super Dave” by The Cadets and was awarded Volunteer of the Year for his efforts. Dave was also devoted to his grandchildren Ava, Simon, and Liam, frequently attending their concerts, plays, musicals, half-time shows, art shows, and other performances. Dave loved attending local theater performances whenever possible, seeing shows at Prima, the Fulton, Servant Stage, EPAC, and the Hershey Theater, among others. He and Paulie also loved to travel to Cape May, NJ to enjoy the beach and spend time with friends. Other travels took them to locations throughout the US, where they participated in Elderhostels, Pathways, and other lifelong learning activities. In addition to his beloved wife, Pauline ("Paulie"), Dave is survived by his sons, David M. Bird and his wife, Julie, of Elkhart, IN, and Robert S. Bird and his wife, Addie, of Waldeck, PA; and his cherished grandchildren, Liam, Ava, and Simon. He was preceded in death by his brother, Walter Bird and his sister, Judith (Bird) Smith. Services will be private and held at the convenience of the family. Interment will take place at Greenwood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, consider making a memorial contribution in Dave’s honor to First United Methodist Church, 29 East Walnut Street, Lancaster, PA 17602 or engagegodfirst.org