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Richard Eakin Obituary
That Heaven was unaware-
A glider pilot had met his fate, and was
now standing at the Heavenly Gate.
"How could this happen?"
the Lord exclaimed,
"For unto Me is known all things,"
The glider pilot's answer was,
"I came on Silent Wings."
Joyce Hill
Richard E. Eakin, of Roanoke, Va., left this earth on August 21, 2007 at the age of 90. In WW II, Lieutenant Eakin served as a glider pilot in the Army Air Corps.
He owned and operated "Richard's Salon of Beauty" until his death and was an active member of Christ Lutheran Church. He also served his community as an airport ambassador, tutor for children at the West End Center and one of the originators of the "Grandin Road Children's Christmas Parade." Richard enjoyed life to the fullest. An avid and active golfer, member of the National Cosmetology Association, Cotillion Club, Knights Templar, and Bonsai Club.
He was preceded in death by his wives, Arminta Wilcox (Dodge City, Kan.) and Hazel King (Roanoke, Va.); and brother, Reverend Charles Eakin. He leaves behind two daughters, Lana Enright of Kansas City, Mo. and Donée Chabot of Los Angeles, Calif.; eight grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; sister-in law, Francis Eakin of Pelham, N.C.; cousin, Edith Garst of Roanoke, Va.; and close friend and companion, Peggy Hunt of Roanoke, Va.
A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday, August 24, 2007 at Christ Lutheran Church in Roanoke with the Reverend David Skole officiating. Interment will follow in Evergreen Burial Park in Roanoke. The family will receive friends on Thursday, August 23, 2007 from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at Oakey's Roanoke Chapel.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Richard's name to the National D-Day Memorial Foundation, P.O. Box 77, Bedford, VA 24523. Arrangements by Oakey's Roanoke Chapel, 540-982-2100.
Memories and Condolences
for Richard Eakin
Rosellen McCrory
August 31, 2007
Richard will be missed by many. Whenever the Ripley family members gathered in Roanoke or in Craig County, Richard was there ~ with a smile, a humorous story, and a lively and graceful dance.
Andrea King Clarke
August 23, 2007
Uncle Richard was far and away the best uncle I ever had. I'm very grateful to have had him in my life. I do wish circumstances allowed me to see him so much more. I will always have very fond, happy, and loving memories of my Uncle Richard.
Andrea (King) Clarke
Crystal Handy
August 23, 2007
Richard was a good man with a good heart that left nothing but positive impressions on all he knew. I sincerely hope that Heaven is celebrating today because the Earth mourns over the loss of so good a man. We'll miss you Uncle Richard!
Dru Sharpe
August 23, 2007
I met Richard when I lived in Roanoke, after I moved away I always saw him at NCA conventions and he always had a hug for me. A dear friend.What a blessing he was to the beauty industry.
Fran Morgan
August 23, 2007
A wonderful man of smiles that gave so much to others will be soarly misssed. The world was richer to have had him in it and his memory will carry on in the hearts of many! With Sympathy,
Fran Morgan
Paula(King) and Jim Cushman
August 23, 2007
We were so sad last evening to hear of Uncle Richard's passing. He had such a love of life and embraced everything he did with gusto! Our sincere condolences are with all of the Family and we know that he now rests in peace.
Debbie LaPrade
August 23, 2007
Richard was a wonderful example to us all. He lived his life to the fullest with a smile on his face and helping others along the way. He will truly be missed by everyone working in the Grandin Road area.
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