Richard Arnold King, Sr., 88, of Cocoa, FL passed away Saturday, June 13, 2015. The son of Omer & Lala King, he was born in Graham, NC. Like so many young men of his day he joined the Merchant Marines in 1944 serving on 6 different ships. As a young man he not only worked in the family’s general store, he grew a lot of the fresh vegetables sold at King & Sons Grocery. Prior to becoming a carpenter he worked in the cotton mills running & loading spools and running machinery.
In 1958 he moved his family to Merritt Island, Florida and started a construction company, doing both commercial and custom residential. In the late 60’s his company built and remodeled McDonald’s in the Southeast US. When everyone thought he retired he continued to work another 20 years with Betterway, Inc. doing restoration, remodeling, furniture and custom cabinets. Once again he retired only to continue to build custom cabinets and various wood crafting projects from his garage shop. Many a treasure box and bird house has been sold at local craft fairs.
He was a man of many talents: artistic, wood craftsman, farmer, cattleman, hunter and fisherman who loved to tell the tales of his many episodes. His love and commitment to family will be remembered by all who knew him.
As a young boy working with older brothers selling watermelons from the back of a truck he met the love of his life, who later became his bride. In February 2012 his wife Doris J King preceded him in death after 65 years of marriage.
Richard is survived by his children, Maria (Raymond) Byrd of Cocoa, Bonnie Lee King and Gloria (Wade) Ryals, both of Palm Bay and Richard Arnold King, Jr of Cocoa; four grandchildren and four great grandchildren; brother, Kenneth (Sue) King; sisters, Gene Boswell, Mary (Ken) Crumpton and Glenda (Bob) Engstrom; and many nieces and nephews.
Richard is remembered by others as “A Man’s Man with old school values”, honest, caring, and independent with a deep commitment to his family and friends.
“A single person has been taken from your life yet your whole world seems empty. In time your broken heart will be replaced with smiles and wonderful memories. They never truly leave us and it's comforting to know they remain close. Remember you are surrounded by love.” Quote from a friend.
“Jesus said I am the life anyone who believes in me even though he dies he shall live eternally.” John 11:25. As long as we remember they live.
In lieu of flowers, plant a tree in his honor and or make a donation to Hospice of St. Francis 1250-B Gruman Place, Titusville, FL 32780.
He will be laid to rest at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, Florida on Thursday, June 18th at 1:00 p.m.
SHARE OBITUARY
v.1.8.18