Richard Lepard

HARLEM, Ga. - Richard L. Lepard, 82, husband of Martha Virginia "Jenny" Lepard, entered into rest on Wednesday, December 16, 2015, at his residence. Graveside service will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, December 19, 2015, in the South Harlem Memorial Gardens with the Reverend Roger Herman officiating with Full Military Honors accorded. Mr. Lepard was a U.S. Army retired CSM, having served as a Green Beret in Korea and six tours in Vietnam. He was the recipient of the distinguished military award, Purple Heart, as well as numerous others, including the Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, National Defense Service Medal (1st OLC), RVN Gallantry Cross with Bronze Star. Army Commendation Medal (1st OLC), Bronze Star Medal (2nd OLC) and the Good Conduct Medal (6th Award). He was a member of the Harlem Masonic Lodge # 276, a 32nd Degree Scottish Rites, and a Shriner. Survivors include his wife, Jenny Lepard; two daughters, Bonnie Parker (Charles Hall) and Elaine Herman (Roger); four sons, Richard A. Lepard (Georgia Sue), Donald E. Lepard (Kim), Arnold G. Whitson (Debbie), and James C. Whitson; twelve grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren; two brothers, Charles Lepard and Jimmy Lepard (Peggy); and one sister, Dessie Thelma Lepard Raby. He was preceded in death by a sister, Martha Jean McDonald. If so desired, memorials may be made to the Shriners Hospital, 950 W Faris Rd., Greenville, SC 29605. The family will receive friends on Friday evening from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the funeral home. Please visit www. starling-evans.com to sign online guestbook. Starling-Evans Funeral Home, 435 W. Milledgeville Rd., Harlem, GA 30814. 706-556-6524