Richard Radford

Richard Earl “Dick” Radford passed away on April 30, 2016 at his Piney View home. Born on July 4, 1928 he was the fourth child of Edna and James Madison Radford. A builder, he worked for his father initially, later other construction companies as he began a career as a bricklayer. Observant of all aspects of construction, Mr. Radford developed his gift of envisioning the building from the drawing to actual project completion. As an employer, he had respect and appreciation for each specialty in his general supervision. He originated the present day Radford & Radford Construction Company. Recreation always involved hunting, fishing, and gardening. He loved raising and working bear hounds. A past President of the West Virginia Bear Hunters’ Association, he actively cooperated with members of the West Virginia Legislature and the Department of Natural Resources to protect the bear population. He actively taught his children to fish, hunt, and to work productively. An avid reader, he was always mindful to encourage them to make the most of educational opportunities. Richard Radford’s legacy includes his genuine love of his work and family. He protected both, encouraging the best from those who worked with him and those who loved him. His recent ill health forced him to limit activity that he relished, but he was appreciative of the group of health care members who provided him with comfort and support. Mr. Radford was preceded in death by his parents; a grandson, Roland Madison Hegele; his sister, Dorothea Brunty Bailey; four brothers, James M. Radford, Jr., Michael Radford, Keith Radford, and Steven Radford; and two nephews, Duane and Terry Brunty. He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Alice Bernice Radford and two daughters, Betsy Hegele and Cindy Stark (John) and one son, Kevin Radford (Beth). Also left to cherish his memory are nine grandchildren in birth order; Megan Stark, Sydney Radford, Skylar Radford, Marien Stark, Nicole and Michael Hegele, Sutton Radford, and Erica and David Hegele. Services for Mr. Radford include visitation on Monday, May 2, 2016 from 6-8 PM at Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Beckley. Funeral service will be conducted at Blue Ridge Funeral Home, Tuesday, May 3, 2016 at 2PM with Pastor Everette Meadows officiating. Pallbearers will be his son, Kevin Radford; son-in-law, John Stark; grandsons, Michael Hegele and Sutton Radford; nephews, Robert E. Radford and William Boyd Radford. Honorary pallbearers include Don Bailey and David Hegele. Burial will follow at Blue Ridge Memorial Gardens, 5251 Robert C. Byrd Drive, Beckley, WV.