Richard “Rick” Thomas Spain, III, 66, of Midlothian, Virginia went to be with The Lord at home, surrounded by loved ones on April 23, 2018. Born February 9, 1952 to Richard Thomas Spain, Jr. and Muriel Whitehurst Spain of Waverly, Virginia.
Rick earned his associates degree from Louisburg College, and his B.S. and Masters in Education from Virginia Commonwealth University where he met his beloved wife of 42 years, Gloria Davis Spain. A true patriot, a love for history, and a passion for helping others led Rick to 31 years of dedicated service to Chesterfield County Public Schools as a respected teacher and history department chair.
Rick loved working in the yard and spending time with friends and family. His pride and joy was his son Richard “Rich” Thomas Spain, IV and his interests became anything that Rich liked. Rick would always say the top three joys of his life were his wife-- marrying her was the best decision of his life, his son, and new daughter-in-law, Lauren Wagner Spain. Responsible, reliable, and accountable, Rick was a perfect Southern gentleman. An animal lover, Rick cared for all living things, especially his sweet schnoodle, Chance. “Once a friend, always a friend,” Rick was a loyal companion to all. He will be missed greatly.
Rick is survived by his wife, Gloria, son Rich, daughter-in-law Lauren, and his brother Michael Whitehurst Spain. A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 26, 2018 from 2:00-4:00 PM and 6:00-8:00 PM at Woody’s Funeral Home, Huguenot. A celebration of life service will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, April 27, 2018 at Bon Air United Methodist Church, where Rick was a member for 42 years. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to Richmond SPCA.
