DICK WHITFIELD
Nov. 22, 1930-Oct. 8, 2017
George Richard "Dick" Whitfield, 86, LaGrange, peacefully passed away Sunday, Oct. 8, 2017.
Dick was born Nov. 22, 1930, in Wayne County to the late Ruby Etheridge Grady and Stinnis Whitfield.
Dick proudly served his country in the United States Navy, and was a veteran of the Korean War.
A man of strong faith, Dick worshiped at Walnut Creek Free Will Baptist Church. He served as a deacon, and sang in the choir for many years.
Dick savored being outdoors. He loved the land and the life of a farmer.
Dick truly enjoyed fishing and hunting. Whether standing at the edge of the river or on the bank of a pond, the tug of a fish on the line always brought a big smile to Dick's face. He especially enjoyed hunting raccoon and quail with his nephew, Ricky.
Dick's life changed many years ago when he saw two ladies walking home from Garris Chapel United Methodist Church. He stopped to offer a ride to a young lady named Peggy Wade, and a romance began. The two of them were practically inseparable through their 61 years of marriage.
Dick truly loved his family, and relished his role as husband, father and grandfather.
Dick was one who never met a stranger, and was always willing to help others in need. His big smile, sense of humor, love of conversation and his tendency to flirt had a way of connecting him with everyone.
A service to celebrate Dick's life will be held Thursday, Oct. 12, 2017, at 6 p.m. from Rouse Funeral Home, with the Rev. Tony McLamb officating. Burial will be Friday at 11 a.m. from Fairview Cemetery.
Dick is survived by his wife of 61 years, Peggy Wade Whitfield; two grandchildren, David Earl Whitfield Jr. and wife, Victoria, and Pattie Marie Whitfield; two sisters, Betty W. Williams and Esther W. Almond; special family friends, Jerry and Deborah Graham; along with a number of special nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, Dick was preceded in death by his children, Pattie Joyce Whitfield and David Earl Whitfield, and a brother, Monk Whitfield.
Dick's family will receive family and friends Thursday following the service.
Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.
Memorials may be made to Walnut Creek Free Will Baptist Church, 138 N. Beston Road, LaGrange, N.C., 28551, or Kitty Askins Hospice Center, 107 Handley Park Court, Goldsboro, N.C., 27534.
Arrangements are with Rouse Funeral Home of LaGrange.
(Pd)
Published in Obituaries on October 11, 2017 8:05 AM