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Richard Walthall Obituary

Richard Wayne Walthall, 59, of Roanoke and Shawsville, passed away suddenly on Monday, December 26, 2011. Surviving are his children, Clay Walthall, Katie Blankenship, Danielle Walthall and Stephen Walthall; daughter-in-law, Rebekah Walthall; son-in-law, Michael Blankenship; mother, Mary Walthall; brothers, Gary Walthall and Michael Walthall; and his beloved grandchildren, Kellen, Heaven, Gracie, Aliya and Jaiden. Rick was known as a hard working man with a big heart. He was a devoted family man and named his company, Family Plumbing. Although he was a man's man, he was as tender as a child and prone to cry during a sad movie. He wore his heart on his sleeve and was an open book. Rick loved animals and particularly his dogs, which were also a part of his family. He was famous for his wit and making people laugh. "Papa Rick", as his grandchildren knew him, was never too tired to romp with them or too busy to play. Those who knew him watched him in recent years overcome many of life's difficulties and transform those troubles into positive thinking, forgiveness and most of all, love. He never stopped giving second chances to those who needed them; he never gave up on those he loved; he never stopped loving. Rick died a happy man, beloved by friends and family, and an inspiration to us all. Memorials may be made to the Roanoke Valley SPCA, P.O. Box 11863, Roanoke, VA 24022. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, December 29, 2011, at Oakey's North Chapel. A small family service will be held on Walthall mountain Friday afternoon. And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:13. Online condolences www.oakeys.com

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Published by Roanoke Times from Dec. 29 to Dec. 30, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Richard Walthall

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Natalie Blackwell

December 23, 2019

You are missed by many still. We know you are overjoyed in heaven to be reunited with your son. Please watch over us all during this holiday season. It's a tuff one.

Virginia Spencer

January 9, 2012

I met Rick by chance, he was hard at work in sweaty July heat. He introduced himself with that infectious smile of his. We talked, about life, and the pursuit of happiness after hurtful events in ones life. He lit up with joy and pride as he told me about his children and grandchildren, and his dogs. Such a lovely, gentle man with a positive outlook for his and his families future. I last had the privilege of running into Rick just before Christmas, and he was happy. He'd picked himself up by his bootstraps and was rebuilding his life after some losses, all with a positive outlook. I am honored to have know Rick even if briefly. The few times we spoke,the few times we crossed paths, I was always left with the thought of "what a great guy." I was shocked to see his kind face on the obituary page and had to look twice to be sure it was him as I hadn't known his last name. But I was sure when I saw Family Plumbing listed there. And I grieve his loss for his family, for his friends, and for those like myself who only briefly crossed the same path as Rick, as he always left a warm feeling behind for you. Strangers who are capable of becoming friends in a matter of minutes is a rare trait. Rick had that ability, with his warm smile, his honesty, his sincerity, and always being "real". What a diamond he was. May God grant each of you his grace, his comfort, and give you the strength you need to get through your grief. Rick is no doubt smiling and making new friends in heaven, and he'd want you not grieve for long, but to pull yourself up by your bootstraps and smile, move ahead, as he had in life after adversity. In a very brief time, this man touched my life with positive energy, I know he surely left all of you with that same energy, same positive outlook. Make use of this gift he has left you in your own life. I'm sure he would be pleased if you did.

Gina Louthian

January 1, 2012

I went to school with Rick many, many years ago. He was always kind and sincere.
I am sorry for your loss. Prayers for healing.

Wesley Waldron

December 31, 2011

To the Walthall family my most heartfelt condolences on the passing of Ricky. May God's love carry you through this time.

Randy Light

December 31, 2011

Mike I know what it's like to loose a brother it's a feeling only a brother can share. I am so sorry for your loss someone said that time heals all wounds well I am still waiting.

brenda,tony,michael and casey trail

December 30, 2011

mike,sorry about your brother.your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Jim Farmer

December 30, 2011

Mike, Dreama and I just heard. I can't believe you were just telling us Tommy's story and now this. We are praying for you all right now and asking for God's peace and comfort for you. Hope to see you again soon.

Diane Davis

December 30, 2011

Walthall Family. May God Bless and Keep You all held tight within his loving arms and bring you peace.
To his children: He was truly a Great Man. A man of virtue, humble, one who deserved the respect of all,first and foremost a father and the best plumber that ever was! He will be reflected through his children and grandchildren now and throughout their lives. What a Blessing...
We will miss you Rick, and I am thankful to have known you for you have touched the lives of us all.

Ann Fleck

December 30, 2011

Gary & Family, to Mary too. I'm so very sorry about Ricky. I remember times we all played in the front yard on Goodwin, soaking up with amazement the lightening bugs & star lit skies Those were the times of innocence. I have gotten away from those times & miss you all. I know that God has his arms around you all in this time of sorrow.

Deborah Poff-Koppelmeyer

December 30, 2011

Mike and Family, I am thinking about you all as you go through this very difficult time. I pray you will feel God's loving comfort and peace as you go through the days ahead. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Penny McNabb

December 30, 2011

I know I cannot say anything to make this hurt go away. Just know that I care so much about the Walthall family and pray that you just continue to have the faith and trust in the Lord to help you through this. Big hug to each of you.

Tammy LaBrie

December 30, 2011

Mike and Family, Our prayers are lifted up for you during this time. God is the Great Comforter. The heartfelt memories of Rick will help to ease your pain.

Leigh Carter

December 30, 2011

I am so sorry for your sudden loss. May the great God of comfort bring you peace beyond measure during this difficult time. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.

RICHARD WALTHALL

December 30, 2011

My condolences to the Walthall Family. I never knew him but have been asked numerous time about my brother Gary & Mike. I would say how do you know my brother in Mississippi and they appeared to think I was joking. I too am Richard L. Walthall of Roanoke and my wife Brenda and I got many calls Wednesday about this and was caught off guard. My brother is Michael Wayne and we are about the same ages as you Richard Wayne. So to the children keep him alive in your hearts and stories to your kids and he will be with you forever.

Robin Garrett

December 30, 2011

Mrs Walthall and family, We are so sorry for your loss. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Dennis and Robin Counts Garrett

Tommy Thacker

December 29, 2011

My thoughts and prayers go out to Rick's family. Mike I am so sorry for your loss. You and your family have had another tragedy to strike. Please take care and keep the faith and I know God will comfort you in these trying times. Again my thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Mike Perry

December 29, 2011

When I moved to Elliston 4 years ago Rick did a lot of plumbing work for me. In those few short years he became both a friend and an inspiration. It's amazing how one life can touch so many, and Rick was one of those special people who could bring sunshine to everyone around him. I am heartbroken to hear of his passing, and I will never forget him. My sincerest thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this time of grief.

Debbie Tingler

December 29, 2011

Dear Gary and family,
I am so sorry for the untimely loss of your brother. Just reading the comments of family and friends about Rick makes others wish they had had the pleasure of knowing this special man of God. What a special family the Walthalls are! May you all feel God's comfort and peace at this difficult time.

Diana Gearheart

December 29, 2011

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

Dreama Poore

December 29, 2011

I have never been as saddened as I am right now after hearing about the loss of my friend Rick. What a wonderful and caring human being he was. He will be terribly missed. My heart is broken for his family and for myself. You remain in my thoughts and prayers. We always shared Lemon pie over the Thanksgiving holiday. How sad I am to hear this news.

Barbara Wright

December 29, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. Hold one another tight and know that God has you in his arms. Your sweet family will be in my prayers.

Keith Short

December 29, 2011

Our hearts and prayers go out to the entire Walthall family. Rick was a great guy. We all enjoyed the times he came in our shop. He always had a smile on his face and was always telling jokes. There needs to be more people like Rick in this world. He will be sadly missed. On behalf of Northeastern Supply Co.

Mike Blankenship

December 29, 2011

As we walk thru our lives we leave many tracks on the path that we take and the paths of those we meet. When all is said and done we hope that we leave mostly happy tracks. Every time I ever met Rick he left happy tracks on my path and that is what I remember most about him. He left an awful lot of happy tracks. May God bless him. Peace.

December 29, 2011

Gary and Family,

We are so very saddened by the sudden death of Rick. He was special to his immediate and extended families and too so many more.We know you, Gary, and he had a very special relatioinshiup and trust that the fond memories of him will be held close to your heart forever. Alicia and I uplift you and the family in our prayers.

God bless all.

Harry and Alicia Nickens, Danville, KY.

debbie dickerson

December 29, 2011

We are so very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Janet (Davis)Stallard

December 29, 2011

My Friend your work here is done! Go Rest in Peace, up on the Mountain. Know you have your Golden Wings. Mike, Gary, you are all in my thoughts and prayers! May God comfort you in this time! Your friends are here for yall!!

Robby Fralin

December 29, 2011

I grew up with most of the Wathall's, Mike, Tommy and Rick when we all were kids through High school age, in Salem. Played basketball, baseball, football in neighborhood games together and worked with Rick and Clay on a few Jobs through the Years. Even though we hav'nt seen alot of each other lately, Rick was always a kind, friendly and helpful type person and will Surely be Missed by all who ever knew him and his Family! May God Bless all your Family's in your time of Need! I will miss you Rick!
Robby, Robin, Preston and Derek Fralin.

Barb Gee

December 29, 2011

Rick was our plumber for years and once he came to fix our tub where we bathe animals. He pulled out this amazing wad of hair and sculpted it to look like a cat, he brought it upstairs and said that he had found the problem. We really shouldn't try to put the cats down the drain. He was always so funny and he always had a smile on his face. We will miss him. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Just so you know...he was proud of how you all turned out.

Jim Shockley

December 29, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all during this difficult time. Our friend Gary has told us about his brother. I am sure he will be missed by many.

Debbie Kelley

December 29, 2011

At loss for words too...A lot of Rick's friend would say Rick was a good heart country boy..I am so sorry for your loss. My heart, prayers and love go out to you at this difficult time. May God bless

Marie Kennedy

December 29, 2011

Thinking of you and your family ..

Natalie Blackwell

December 29, 2011

I am thankful for one last ride up the mountain. Rick has been one of the most positive influences on my life for the last 32 years. I'll never forget that. Peace be with the Walthall family.

April Wilcher

December 29, 2011

I work for the horsefarm in shawsville over the years Rick was there many times. The first things that struck me about him was that big smile and he was always so friendly.He endlessly spoke of his children and grandkids he adored each and everyone of you guys.He always took the time to ask me how my kids were even though i wasnt part of his family.Several months ago he was working on a faucet in the kitchen and couldnt see the numbers. I happened through the kitchen and he asked for my help.Several guesses and a magnifying glass later we still had no clue.Just several good laughs about our vision being terrible!! Haha.Id also like to share that he attended our company christmas party. Standing in the kitchen a joke was made about who let him in. Rick just smiled and replied ' somebody put a detour sign at the end of the road'. We all laughed he had an amazing sense of humor . Anybody who knew him was truly blessed.May Gods love comfort and help you through this.We are all praying for you all.

Shannon & Brian Jordan

December 29, 2011

You & your family are in our thoughts & prayers, lean on each other for strength & support thru this terrible loss & share in the great memories of your father.

Betty Musser

December 29, 2011

In loving memory of a wonderful person. although I have not seen Rick in years as I have lived out of state for the last 16 years.I always remember him being the sweetest and kindest man, with his infectous smile..So sorry for the loss of another brother and son,father,and grandfather,friend,cousin and all that he was..RIP cousin , you will be missed. Love You..

Diane Parker

December 29, 2011

Mike and family! So sorry for your loss! My heart goes out to you all. He is in God's arms now and with Tommy. I know there is not much comfort in words but know that God needed him home and you will see him again! You all are in my thoughts and prayers.

Scott&Leslie English

December 29, 2011

We are so sorry for the loss of your dad. You are in our prayers.

Leisia Cooley

December 29, 2011

So sorry for your loss. May God wrap his loving arms around you and help comfort you during this time.

Rik Peery

December 29, 2011

So many memories of this family & their contributions to the community over the years...honored to have called Ricky a friend, rest in peace my brother, thanks for always being there when in need...

Charlotte Hale

December 29, 2011

I am at loss for words...May God Comfort ALL...So Sorry for Your Loss...

Pam Meadows

December 29, 2011

Clay and Rebekah - We were so sorry to hear of your loss. We love you and lifting you and your family up to the One who holds your loved one. Love, Aunt Pam, Danny & Edward

Suzann Bowman

December 29, 2011

Clay, Rick was one of our favorite customers. He always had a smile and kind word to say. We were always joking and carrying on and had a great time. He will be missed. We are sorry for your loss. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. On behalf of CMC Supply, Suzann.

Lisa Ferguson

December 29, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

December 29, 2011

Doug and Carolyn Pence are thinking of you at this time of need

Sharon Fauls

December 29, 2011

Working with Rick was always a great pleasure. I always called on him for all my plumbing needs. He will be missed. We send our deepest sympathy from Croy Contracting to the family. I am sorry I never got to meet him. You are in our prayers.
Sharon Fauls - Croy Contracting, Inc.

Mike Walthall

December 29, 2011

RIP, Rick. our last words, "I Love you, brother." Why now though? Have fun with Tommy, Dad and our many other families,friendds and dogs! Love you, brother!

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