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Richard Lael Obituary
October 17, 1939 - September 19, 2025
Richard Lamar Lael, a devoted husband, father, and lifelong servant to his community, passed away with dignity on Friday, September 19, 2025, at the age of 85.
After graduating from Hickory High School in 1958, Richard proudly served his country in the United States Air Force, completing four years of service and finishing his tenure as a B-52 alert controller. Following his military service, he became a familiar face and voice as a television and radio personality for many years at WHKY and WXRC/WIRC. He later worked with Hickory Funeral Home and went on to serve as manager of A Cleaner World in Viewmont for nearly 19 years. Known for his steadfast work ethic, Richard devoted himself fully to his family and community. His tireless dedication created a foundation of love and service that continues to inspire those who knew him.
A man of deep faith and music, Richard was a dedicated member of St. Andrews Lutheran Church and choir, the Hickory Choral Society, and participated in numerous community theatre productions. His love for music and performance brought joy to many and enriched the cultural life of Hickory.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Earnest Ray Lael and Annie Mae Turner; his beloved wife of 64 years, Paulette Hoke Lael; his brother, Glenn Lail; his sisters, Janette Isenhour and Katherine Wilson; and his daughter-in-law, Brandy Winkler Lael. He is survived by his two sons, Richard "Rick" Lamar Lael II and Darren Paul Lael, both of Hickory, and a number of nieces and nephews.
A service to celebrate Richard's life will be held at St. Andrews Lutheran Church, Friday, October 3, 2025, at 2 p.m., with Reverend Tony Bradshaw officiating. Inurnment will follow in St Andrews Memorial Garden
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 629 8th St. NE, Hickory, NC 28601; the Hickory Choral Society, 243 3rd Ave. NE #2N, Hickory, NC 28601; the Hickory Community Theatre, 30 3rd St NW, Hickory, NC 28601; the Catawba County Humane Society, PO Box 2472, Hickory, NC 28603; Trinity Ridge Rehab, 2140 Medical Park Dr, Hickory, NC 28602; or Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Road, Suite B, Newton, NC 28658.
Hickory Funeral Home
1031 11th Ave. Blvd. SE, Hickory, NC 28602
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Memories and Condolences
for Richard Lael
Sponsored by Hickory Funeral Home.
4 Entries
Thomas W. Peeler Jr
October 4, 2025
Dick was a competitor of mine when we worked for different radio stations in Hickory. If you have to have competitors, you want them to be like Dick. He was always kind, cordial and considerate in all the dealings I had with him. I wish his family peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Lala and David Kozischek
October 1, 2025
David and I will deeply miss the best neighbor anyone could ask for. All our love and prayers to you, Rick and Darren. Lala and David
Paul Fogleman
September 30, 2025
I worked with Dick at WHKY radio in 1962-63. He was easy to like and admire. He loved his home town.
Doug Sigmon
September 30, 2025
I remember working with Richard at Hickory Funeral Home in the '70s. Sad to hear of his passing.
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