Rev. J. Richard "Dick" Gottshall

1924 - 2025

Rev. J. Richard (Dick) Gottshall

August 26, 1924 - May 29, 2025

Rev. J. Richard (Dick) Gottshall of Roanoke, Va., passed away peacefully while surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, May 29, 2025, at the age of 100+ years of age. He joyfully joined his wife, Dottie, the love of his life for 81 years and his oldest daughter, Hope Gottshall.

Dick was born on August 26, 1924, in Royersford, Pennsylvania to Reinhart F. and Elizabeth K. Gottshall.

Surviving are his daughters, Joy A. Gottshall of Greensboro, North Carolina and Jill G. Mooney (Ron) of Roanoke, Virginia. He was a loving grandfather to Ryan Mooney and Brooke Etter (Shane) and great-grandfather (Poppy) to Jewel Wood (Jessie) and Emma Etter all of Roanoke, Virginia. Also surviving is his special caregiver, Lisa Lovelass, who now is family.

He was recognized in November of 2024 at the Church of the Brethren's District Conference for 80 years of service for the set-apart ministry. He knew at an early age he was called to the ministry in the Church of the Brethren (COB). After attending Bethany Seminary his ministerial service began in Coopersburg, Pennsylvania after which he moved to Pine Glen COB located in Lewistown, Pennsylvania. Next, he and his family of five moved to Bassett COB located in Bassett, Virginia. His next calling was Peters Creek COB in Roanoke after which he relocated to Greencastle COB in Greencastle, Pennsylvania. He and Dottie returned to Pine Glen where he retired in 1989. He and Dottie retired to Roanoke to be near their family.

Raised on a farm he learned his work ethic which followed him throughout his life, a gift he bestowed on his children. During retirement he used woodworking skills learned in high school. You can view his handiwork in family and friends' homes. It was not uncommon for him to hear, "Daddy, will you build this for me?"

His love for the Lord never wavered. His faith led him to do numerous interims and mentoring new ministers. Within the church's district, he spearheaded numerous projects while providing guidance within many committees. His wisdom and knowledge were invaluable.

Dick wore many hats during his lifetime. He was a minister, son, brother, uncle, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and an inspiration to all who knew and loved him. He was a passionate and compassionate man, humble beyond belief. He always looked for the good in all people and circumstances despite challenges.

We always knew something was coming when his little boy grin appeared. That sense of humor never left him, just ask his family. He freely expressed his love. This world has lost an amazing man. He was happy to leave because he knew he would be reunited with the love of his life, his oldest daughter, and his heavenly Father. His last sermon, "By Faith", epitomized his life.

Many thanks to the numerous hospice workers, especially RNs Nicole Wingfield and Clara Micolupo and chaplain Tammy Jaffee.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at Oakey's East Chapel, 5188 Cloverdale Road, Roanoke from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. followed by burial at Daleville Cemetery, 630 Roanoke Road, Daleville at 2 p.m. The public is invited. A memorial service celebrating his life and who he was will be held at Central Church of the Brethren, 416 Church Avenue, Roanoke at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2025.

In honor of Dick, donations may be made to Good Samaritan Hospice, 4751 Cove Road, Roanoke, VA 24017. Condolences may be shared with his family by visiting www.Oakeys.com.

Oakey's Funeral Service - East Chapel

Roanoke, VA (540) 977-3909