Dr. Edward F. Linder, Jr.

Dr. Edward F. Linder, Jr., 88, husband of the late Donnatella E. Franciosa, of Phoenixville, PA passed away peacefully on Monday, February 5, 2024 at home.

Born on November 23, 1935 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Edward F. Linder, Sr. and Helen (McCafferty) Linder.

After graduating from Saint Matthew’s High School in Conshohocken, Ed joined the United States Marine Corps.  Being a Marine was an enormous point of pride for Ed.    In 1957 he was honorably discharged from active duty and later served in a reserve unit.  He was a true patriot who enjoyed the comradery of his fellow veterans.  Ed graduated with a Bachelor of Science from West Chester University in 1962 and Masters of Art in Education from Ohio University in 1963.  Shortly thereafter, Ed earned his Doctorate in Psychology from The Pennsylvania State University.  Ed spent much of his career as a Dean of Students, Director of Student Programs and Services, and Program Coordinator of Undergraduate Studies at Penn State at various campuses, including Delaware County and Allentown.  As a licensed counselor, Ed thrived in private practice and worked tirelessly to support his clients.  For over 40 years, Ed was a Professor of Psychology at Montgomery County College (Blue Bell & Pottstown campuses), having retired from this position just a few years ago.  Even though his career kept him quite busy, he never shied away from volunteer opportunities.  Throughout the years he volunteered through Rotary International, the American Red Cross, and Phoenixville Hospital, just to name a few organizations.  In addition, he was devoted to his religion and was an active member of St. Basil the Great Church in Phoenixville, where he was proudly a Fourth Degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus.

When you think of Ed, you can’t help to think of his smile and laugh.  He made friends wherever he went, and truly enjoyed speaking with people.   You also can’t help but think of what a dapper dresser he was—he very much enjoyed his 3-piece suits and matching hats.    Being in the classroom, teaching his students was a place where he truly shined.  He spoke fondly of his students and never tired of finding new ways to bring the subject matter to life.  Ed cherished the bonds he developed with his students.  Throughout his life, Ed enjoyed being active.  He played football, enjoyed golfing and swimming, and was a college soccer coach.  While he enjoyed rooting for the local teams, everyone knew that Penn State was his team!   Most important to Ed were his family and friends.  He loved them tremendously and never failed to lend a helping hand, offer words of comfort or support, or tell a joke.  

Ed is survived by his nephews, Mark Franciosa (Sharon), Dr. Stefan Franciosa (Tracey), and Jon Franciosa (Pamela), goddaughter Patricia Colvin (David), godson Bill Hendrickson (Sandra), cousins John DiIanni (Linda) and Donald DiIanni (Lori), great-nephews Seth, Ajay, and Gavin Franciosa, great-nieces Harlow, Goldie, and Bijou Franciosa, and many friends.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend his Funeral Mass in St. Basil the Great Catholic Church, 2340 Kimberton Road, Phoenixville, PA on Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 9:45 am.

Burial will follow in George Washington Memorial Park, Plymouth Meeting, PA.

A visitation will be held in the church on Saturday from 9:00 to 9:45 am. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be given to St. Basil the Great Knights of Columbus Council 13800

Make checks payable to:

St Basil Knights of Columbus Council 13800

Mailing Address:

St Basil Knights of Columbus Council 13800

40 Aldian Road

Phoenixville, PA 19460