Brenton F. Lehigh

Brenton F. “Brent” Lehigh, 74, of Tuscarawas, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, February 8, 2025 in Park Village Care Centre at Dover.

Born at Dennison, Brent was the son of the late Lyle E. and Emma (Thompson) Lehigh and was a cherished member of his community and a dedicated family man. Brent lived a life filled with purpose, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to his family and friends.

Brent’s journey began with a deep passion for education. He received his Bachelor's Degree in Education from Muskingum University and went on to earn his Master's Degree from the University of Dayton. He embarked on his teaching career with the Claymont School System, where he devoted 30 years of his life and also coached high school basketball. His kindness and gentle demeanor made him a beloved figure, as he had an extraordinary ability to make others feel at ease.

Brent took on a new venture in 1979 as the Owner of Lehigh Insurance Agency in Uhrichsville. He successfully ran the agency until he sold it in 2013, marking the end of a second chapter in his career. Yet, true to his nature of never staying idle, he later served as a driver for Senior Transportation of Tuscarawas County for five fulfilling years until health challenges prompted him to retire for a third time.

Brent was an honorable veteran of the United States Army Reserve, serving with the 717th Railroad Battalion at Dennison and the 361st MP's at Canton. His service instilled in him a sense of duty and pride that he carried throughout his life.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Brent was a man who cherished family and community. He was a longtime member of Sharon Moravian Church in Tuscarawas and was also an active member of the Indian Valley Athletic Booster Club, having served as a past President, reflecting his commitment to supporting youth sports and community initiatives. Additionally, he was involved with the Claymont Jaycees and the Warwick Lions, sharing his time and talents generously.

Brent’s love for sports was infectious. He was a multi sport athlete earning him the title of the first Mr Polaris at IVN. He enjoyed all types of sports and especially relished the moments spent watching his children and then his grandchildren participate in their athletic endeavors. Brent enjoyed hanging out at his cabin with his closest friends and also his Tuesday breakfast crew. Travel was another passion of Brent’s, particularly trips with his wife to Myrtle Beach and the mountains of Tennessee, creating memories that would last in their hearts forever.

Brent is survived by his wife of over 53 years, Sara J. (Swaldo) Lehigh of the residence; his two children, Jamie (Michele) Lehigh of New Philadelphia and Lori (Jamie) Hartrick of Tuscarawas; his six grandchildren, Alec Hartrick, Karson (Baycee) Hartrick, Braeden Lehigh, Kolby Hartrick, Blake Lehigh and Brooklyn Lehigh; his great grandson, Hayes Brenton Hartrick; a brother, Bryan (Jennifer) Lehigh of Gnadenhutten; a sister in-law, Lynn Carper of Tuscarawas and many special nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Brent was preceded in death by his sister and brother-in-law, Karen and Tom Russell; a brother-in-law, Tim Carper; a brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Vicki and Terry Leggett and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Ervin and Kate Swaldo.

Funeral services will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025 at 11 AM in Sharon Moravian Church at Tuscarawas with Pastor Lloyd Gooden officiating. Visitation will be held in the church beginning at 9:30 AM until the time of the service. Following the service and in keeping with his wishes, cremation care is to be provided by the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory and no public graveside services are to be scheduled.

The family requests that memorial contributions be made to either the Indian Valley Athletic Booster Club, PO Box 664, Gnadenhutten, Ohio 44629, or, Sharon Moravian Church, 4776 Moravian Church Road SE, New Philadelphia, Ohio 44663.