Richard Anthony Markley

Mr. Richard Anthony Markley, age 63, of Vienna, VA, passed away on October 11, 2011 at the Powhatan Nursing Home in Falls Church, VA. after a courageous battle against a variety of illnesses. Rich was the adored son of the late Maria Jean Markley (Rose). He was the longtime dearest and best friend of Susan George, close friend of Patrick Woody, Fred Kustes and Beth Henchy and many others over his lifetime. Richard was predeceased by his cherished cat of 18 years, Heather. Rich was born in Brownsville, PA and was a high school graduate of Redstone High School. He attended Allegheny Technical Institute and University of Pittsburgh. Rich was a veteran, serving for six years in the US Army as a Military Police Officer and then the reserves of the National Guard of PA. He received an honorable discharge with a ranking of SP4. During that time he was awarded ARCAM, the General T J Stewart Medal and PA Service Ribbon w/1st Silver Star. Rich worked as a technical specialist for AT & T and retired after 30 years of service. Although a very private man, Rich enjoyed life with his friends. He loved refereeing high school and youth basketball games and pitched men's softball. He earned a Black Belt degree in Tae Kwon Do, and was an avid and dedicated Pittsburgh Steelers fan. He also was a professional photographer. A Private memorial will be held at a later time. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are requested to the Fairfax Animal Shelter or Powhatan Nursing Home in Falls Church. I REST IN THEE I wrap myself in the mantle of LOVE and fall asleep, filled with PEACE Through the long night PEACE remains with me and at the breaking of a new day, I shall be filled with LIFE and LOVE. I shall go forth into the new day Confident and Happy. author unknown, written by Richard A. Markley