Harlan Jeffrey Thal

Harlan Jeffrey Thal, 78, of Lancaster, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, December 25, 2025, following a five-month battle with pancreatic cancer.

Born in Philadelphia, he was the son of the late Harvey and Beatrice (Rudolph) Thal. He graduated from Lower Merion High School in 1965 and Pennsylvania Military Academy in 1969. Following a career working in radio production for Larry King and the Miami Dolphins, and public affairs for the Federal Aviation Administration, he spent the past 10 years as a substitute teacher for Conestoga Valley and Manheim Township School Districts, where he was known affectionately as “Mr. Mustache.”

A Phillies fan from birth, Jeff loved baseball, cooking and baking, reading mysteries, writing sonnets, singing acapella with Stock and the Yards, and taking long walks with his dogs, Stella and Charley.

He is survived by his wife, Ellen Wylie; his children, Benjamin Thal, husband of Cristina Lescay Megret, Aliza Wylie-Thal, and Morgan Wylie-Thal; granddaughters Nova and Luna Lescay; sisters, Patty Laurie and Karen Thal; and many beloved cousins and close friends.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Donations to Charlie’s Crusaders Pet Rescue would be deeply appreciated.