Beloved Educator Carole L. Rish Passes Away at 86

Carole L. Rish, aged 86, of Shickshinny, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on December 15, 2025, after a long battle with Parkinson’s Disease. She was under the compassionate care of the Allied Services Hospice Center at the time of her passing.

Born on August 23, 1939, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, Carole was the daughter of the late Anna (Brindle) Ziegler and Pastor Phillip Ziegler. She grew up in a loving family that emphasized education and community. Carole attended East Stroudsburg University, where she earned a degree in teaching. Her athletic prowess shone through as she was an accomplished gymnast, participating on the university’s traveling gymnastics team.

Carole’s passion for dance and gymnastics influenced her decision to teach physical education. Throughout her career, she coached gymnastics and cheerleading in various school districts. Ultimately, she settled in the Greater Nanticoke Area School District, where she dedicated many years as an elementary physical education teacher. Carole was particularly known for introducing her students to line dancing and square dancing, often using an eclectic music selection, with a fondness for tunes by Neil Diamond.

Her influence extended beyond the classroom, as many former students credited her with positively impacting their lives. One of her nurses, who had been a student of Carole’s, expressed gratitude for her lasting influence even on the day of her passing.

Carole is preceded in death by several family members, including her son, David W. Moyer, and her infant sister, Marlene Ziegler. She is survived by her daughters, Lisa Moyer (and fiancé Anthony Novitski) and Kimberly (Moyer) Czapracki (and spouse Kenny), along with her brothers, Jack Ziegler (and spouse Darlene) and David Ziegler. Additionally, she leaves behind numerous grandchildren and several great-grandchildren.

Before her diagnosis with Parkinson’s Disease, Carole led an active and adventurous life. Known for her joyous personality and sense of humor, she created countless cherished memories during her summers working in Ocean City, New Jersey. Her warm spirit and unconditional love endeared her to many, and she will be remembered as an extraordinary mother and friend.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made to the Nanticoke Christian Fellowship church. A visitation will take place on Saturday, December 27, 2025, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the Dinelli Family Funeral Home located at 170 East Broad Street, Nanticoke. Following the visitation, a memorial service will be conducted by Pastor David Pegarella from the Nanticoke Christian Fellowship. The family plans to announce a celebration of life gathering, including a meal, at a later date for all who wish to attend.

For those wishing to leave a message of condolence or expression of sympathy, please visit the funeral home’s website at www.dinellifuneralhome.com. Carole L. Rish will be deeply missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire those who knew her.