DAVID GARRAGHTY

GARRAGHTY, David Ashley, 65, of Richmond, was born in Roanoke, Va., on May 19, 1947, and departed on his last journey from his beloved home at Smith Mountain Lake on Thursday, June 28, 2012. He was predeceased by his parents, Audrey N. Grover and T. Ashley Garraghty. He is survived by his wife, Martha Tingle Garraghty; and his son, David Russell (Katy) Garraghty. Other survivors include his sister, Jean (Herbert) McBride; brother, Preston (Lori) Garraghty; stepchildren, Brian (Lori) Hinson and Karen (Paul) Gregory; grandchildren, Kimberly, Madison, Natalie, Josie and Jamar; and stepparents, Betty Garraghty and Paul Grover. Early in life, Dave enjoyed a successful career in Scouting, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and induction into the Order of the Arrow. Following graduation from high school, Dave served in the U.S. Navy, and attended Virginia Western Community College and Virginia Commonwealth University. At VCU, Dave earned a master's degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and completed his coursework toward a doctorate in Public Administration. Because his thirst for knowledge knew no limits, Dave spent years at Richmond Technical Center, gaining expertise in a wide variety of trades including plumbing, electricity, masonry and small engine repair. His 30 year professional career in the Virginia Department of Corrections included positions as Assistant Warden at Powhatan Correctional Center, Warden at Lawrenceville Correctional Center and Nottoway Correctional Facility and Chief Warden at Greensville Correctional Facility. He devoted his career to improving prison conditions, developing effective inmate rehabilitation programs and serving as an advocate for all state employees. He retired in 2002 and continued directing his energies toward providing affordable housing in the Richmond area. Included in these efforts was the completion of three historic renovations. Dave loved to travel and completed a legal study tour to the former USSR and Ireland. He and Martha traveled extensively throughout the world, visiting Europe, Asia, and most recently the Amazon basin. In 1994, Dave and Martha purchased a 200 year-old home at Smith Mountain Lake where they spent many wonderful times with their family and friends. He was a man of strong principles and a generous spirit, both of which he consistently maintained. What many view as obstacles, Dave saw as opportunities. To many of us, Dave was larger than life because he was our father figure, mentor and steadfast friend. Dave's love of life included family, food, his pets, political debate, the acquisition of knowledge and driving his tractor. A special thank you to Heartland Hospice Services of Richmond and Good Samaritan Hospice of Roanoke. The family will receive visitors 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, July 6, at Bliley's Funeral Home, 3801 Augusta Ave., Richmond. In lieu of flowers, Dave says to "do things right, but do right things." Online condolences maybe made at Oakeys.com. Arrangements by Oakey's Vinton Chapel, 540-982-2221.


This obituary was originally published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch.