Richard LaFever

Richard "Rich" LaFever, 92, passed away on Monday, August 4, 2025. He was born in Olean, NY on July 24, 1933 and was the son of Sidney G. and Mildred Childs LaFever. On May 8, 1954, he married the former Betty Brooks who predeceased him. He was in the US Air Force and was stationed in Savannah, GA, where their oldest daughter, Sharon, was born. After completing his tour with the Air Force, they moved to Indiana, where he obtained his Electrical Engineering Degree. After graduation, they moved to Montgomery County, MD. He joined the John Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory and worked on guided missile systems for military aircrafts. Their second daughter, Danette, was born after they moved to Maryland. In July 1998, Betty and Richard moved to Sun City, South Carolina. Richard was active in various clubs, such as the Computer Club, Travel Club, Upbeats (Social Club), and Karaoke. In 1999, Betty and Richard started the Line Dance Club. Betty passed away May 2, 2012 at the age of 79. Richard was fortunate to find a second life companion, Judy Churchman, who survives him. They enjoyed Sun City friends and activities together for over ten years. Richard is survived by his two daughters, Sharon Symonds (Thomas) of Bluffton, SC and Danette White of Frederick, MD. He is also survived by four grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, and one sister (94 years old). He was predeceased by one brother and one sister. A private service will be held for immediate family and close friends. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the American Heart Association. To plant a beautiful memorial tree in memory of Richard LaFever, please visit our Tree Store.