Beth Lynn Hitch, 58, of Richmond, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 31, 2010, after a two-year fight against ALS.

Originally from Evansville, the Reitz graduate went on to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Indiana State University and Master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan. She spent 23 years as a dedicated and creative fourth grade teacher. Her love of Indiana history and nature led to many field trips, hotdog roasts, and projects for her Vaile Elementary students. She was awarded the Indiana Teacher of the Year for social studies in 2003. A proud and devoted mother, she never missed a swim meet or activity. Her philanthropic work with PEO and Tri-Kappa lifted up many members of the communities she was a part of. Starts from her beautiful gardens are all over the state of Indiana.

Survivors include: her husband of 37 years, Richard Hitch; son, Chris Hitch and wife Tanya of Evansville; daughter, Erinn Jankowski and husband Tom of Evansville; grandson, Ozzy Jankowski; mother, Bonnie Barning of Evansville; and sister, Carrie Carlson of Crawfordsville.

Visitation for Beth Lynn Hitch will be from 3-8 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 2, 2010, at Doan and Mills Funeral Home, 790 National Road West, in Richmond. Another visitation will be from 9-10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 4, 2010, with funeral services at 10:30 a.m. at St. Philip Church, 3500 St. Philip Road in Mt. Vernon with Deacon Joe Stofleth officiating.  Burial will be in Tupman Cemetery, Evansville.