Edward D. "Ed" Hutchins

After a long and faithful journey, Edward D. "Ed" Hutchins, 77, of Lancaster, was taken to his eternal home with Jesus on September 24, 2026, following a long battle with Alzheimer's.

Born in Vermont, Ed was the son of William "Bud" and Sylvia (Bunker) Hutchins from Hydeville (Castleton), VT. Ed graduated from Gordon College (MA) and was the owner of Hutchins Fuels in Hydeville until 1997 when his family moved to Lancaster, PA. 

Ed was a man with many gifts and eager to try new things. He loved carpentry, so he built a new home for his parents and a gas station for his business. He loved to teach and speak, with many opportunities to lead in church and business. Whether it was a small Bible study in a home or in front of 3,000 business associates, he was in his element as the speaker/presenter. He loved to travel and play golf along the way. Ed loved landscaping, and transformed every yard he owned into a thing of beauty, with white picket fence and beautiful flower gardens. He always loved a challenge, so at age 61, he started a new career in real estate.

Ed married his childhood sweetheart, Carlene (Ross), enjoying 56 years of love and partnership in serving others in work, ministry, and hospitality. Many lives were touched by his counsel, giving spirit, and amazing sense of humor. His goal was always to become more like Jesus and to be a great friend, husband, father and grandfather, "Papa".

In addition to his loving wife, Carlene, Ed is survived by two daughters (and sons), Amy and Ron Shepherd and Alison and Tim McLennan, and seven grandchildren: Ashley, Emily, Brayden and Lila Shepherd; Annabell, Liam and Avivah McLennan, all from Lancaster, PA. Also surviving are June Camara, Carol Ross and Susan Hutchins (like sisters), nieces Heather Ross Ibey, Mary Perry, and Tia Camara and several cousins.

Burial will be in Landis Valley Mennonite Cemetery, Lancaster, PA. Ed's family will gather to celebrate his life privately at a later date. Condolences would be received by mail at 1933 Geraldson Dr, Lancaster, PA 17601.