LEVITTOWN, Pa. — Drew Vincent Hess, a dedicated educator who spent more than two decades teaching English, passed away peacefully at his home on October 16, 2026, at the age of 48. Originally from Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and raised in Ewing, New Jersey, Drew built a life centered on education, family, friendship, and humor. His passing has left a profound loss for his loved ones, colleagues, former students, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

Throughout his career, Drew helped students develop their academic abilities and confidence while creating meaningful connections that extended beyond the classroom. Remembered for his warmth, quick wit, and encouraging nature, he leaves behind a legacy shaped by his devotion to teaching and the people he loved.

Remembering Drew Vincent Hess

Drew Hess was more than an experienced educator. He was a husband, father, son, brother, and friend whose personality brought humor and warmth into the lives of others.

Those who knew Drew remember a man with wide-ranging interests, an infectious enthusiasm for sports, and a playful sense of humor. He valued friendships and family connections, finding joy in shared experiences, spirited conversations, and the everyday moments that make life meaningful.

His ability to make people laugh and encourage those around him helped define the relationships he built throughout his life. Whether among colleagues, friends, or family members, Drew brought a distinctive personality that made him memorable.

As those closest to him mourn his passing, the memories they shared will remain an important part of his enduring legacy.

A Teaching Career Spanning More Than 20 Years

Drew’s commitment to education began during his studies at Temple University, where he earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education.

He went on to dedicate more than 20 years to teaching, ultimately serving as a 12th-grade English teacher at Commonwealth Charter Academy. During his career, he helped hundreds of students strengthen their writing, reading, communication, and critical-thinking skills.

For Drew, teaching was about more than delivering lessons. Educators can influence how students see themselves, approach challenges, and prepare for the future. Through his work, Drew had opportunities to encourage young people, help them build confidence, and support their academic development.

His colleagues remembered him for bringing humor, warmth, and encouragement into the workplace. These qualities helped make him a valued member of the educational community.

The impact of a teacher often continues long after students leave the classroom. For the young people Drew taught, the lessons he shared and the encouragement he offered may remain meaningful throughout their lives.

A Love of Sports, Literature, and Running

Outside the classroom, Drew Hess enjoyed a variety of interests that reflected his enthusiasm, curiosity, and competitive spirit.

He was a passionate supporter of Philadelphia sports, including the Phillies and Temple Owls. He also followed the Chicago Bears, New York Rangers, Chicago Bulls, and Formula 1 racing.

Sports offered opportunities for excitement, friendly debate, and shared experiences with family and friends. Drew also enjoyed participating in fantasy sports leagues, where his interest in competition could become part of a larger social tradition.

His hobbies extended beyond athletics. Drew collected baseball cards and sneakers and enjoyed reading literature, interests that complemented his professional background as an English teacher.

Running became another important part of his life. Through dedication and perseverance, he achieved a personal goal of completing the Boston Marathon, an accomplishment that reflected his commitment to pursuing challenges and working toward meaningful milestones.

These interests were an important part of the person his family and friends knew and loved.

Drew Hess’s Family: A Devoted Husband and Father

Above all, Drew treasured his family. He is survived by his wife of 12 years, Linda, affectionately known as Lu; his daughters, Maya and Harper; his parents, Robert Hess and Mary Jo Colletti; his brother, Scott; and extended family members.

The family’s pets were also a cherished part of their household.

Drew took great pride in supporting his wife and raising his daughters with kindness, understanding, empathy, and optimism. His commitment to family life was central to the legacy he leaves behind.

For his daughters, his influence will live on through the values he sought to instill and the memories they shared. For Linda, his parents, his brother, and extended family, his absence represents the loss of someone whose presence helped shape their everyday lives.

As they navigate their grief, the love and experiences they shared with Drew remain part of the bond that continues beyond his passing.

Drew Vincent Hess Obituary: Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

A celebration of life for Drew Vincent Hess is scheduled for October 26, 2026, at James J. Dougherty Funeral Home in Levittown, Pennsylvania, according to the information provided. A memorial service is also planned to honor his life and legacy.

Family members, friends, former students, and colleagues will have an opportunity to remember Drew, share stories, and celebrate the impact he made on those around him.

In his memory, donations may be made to the following local organizations:

• Lower Makefield Library

• Lower Makefield Police Department

• Lower Makefield Fire Department

Those planning to attend the services or make a memorial donation should confirm the arrangements and preferred donation procedures with the funeral home or family.

A Lasting Legacy of Education, Humor, and Compassion

Drew Hess’s life reflected a deep commitment to helping others, whether through his work as a teacher or his relationships with family and friends.

Over more than two decades in education, he influenced students at an important stage in their lives. At home, he devoted himself to his wife and daughters, seeking to raise his children with empathy, kindness, and optimism. Among friends and colleagues, his humor and enthusiasm helped create lasting connections.

His passing at 48 is a heartbreaking loss for those who knew him. Yet his influence remains in the lessons he taught, the friendships he nurtured, the challenges he pursued, and the love he gave his family.

As loved ones gather to celebrate his life, they will remember not only an accomplished educator but also a man whose humor, generosity, and devotion made a difference in the lives of others.

May Drew Vincent Hess be remembered with love, and may his family, friends, former students, and colleagues find comfort in the memories they hold dear.

Disclaimer

Information here is for general information purposes only. This obituary is based on the information provided for publication. Funeral and memorial arrangements, donation details, and biographical information should be confirmed with the family or James J. Dougherty Funeral Home. Readers are encouraged to respect the privacy of Drew’s loved ones as they mourn his passing.