Donald Ray Richbourg

Born on April 18, 1938, in Columbia, South Carolina, Donald was the eldest of five children born to Moses and Blanche Richbourg (née Senn). Eager to stand on his own two feet, he didn’t wait for adulthood to catch up—he enlisted in the Navy before reaching voting age, determined to chart his own course in the world.

Not long after, his world would collide with that of his future wife, Charlotte Jean Meyer. Together, Donald and Charlotte sailed through 62 years of marriage, sharing in countless adventures across the United States while raising their two children, Donna and Dale.

Over the course of a 30-year career, Donald served his country with distinction, reaching the highest possible rank as an enlisted member and retiring as Master Chief Petty Officer of the naval base in New Orleans, Louisiana. Whether on duty or on leave—with his fellow sailors or with his family—Donald was a leader. Leadership wasn’t just a title for him though; it was a way of life marked not by loud commands, but by quiet courage of conviction and commitment.

A devoted husband, father, brother, grandfather (“pa pa”), and more, Donald’s voyage through life was defined by service and anchored in faith. A devout man, his faith was a compass guiding his every decision. Whether offering guidance with a steady hand or sharing stories that rippled through generations, he was a hero to many and an inspiration to all who knew him. Although his absence will be profoundly felt, his legacy will endure.

Donald was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Charlotte; his parents, Moses and Blanche; and his brother, Kenneth. He is survived by his children, Donna and Dale (Wendy); his siblings, Floyd (Connie), Calvin (Lola), and Gwen (Ben); his granddaughters, Dione (Josh), Sandi, Ashlee, and Kassie; his great-grandchildren, Tyler, Taylor, Tiffanie, and Gabby; his great-great-grandsons, Jaiden and Cameron; and many other cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

To celebrate Donald’s life, please join his family for memorial services on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the St. Andrews Road Church of Christ, located at 425 St. Andrews Road in Columbia, South Carolina. Visitation begins at 11:30 a.m., with a funeral service to follow at noon. Honorably serving as pallbearers: Jesse Richbourg, Andy “Bear” Richbourg, JJ Richbourg, and Anderson Richbourg.

A graveside service will be held immediately thereafter at the Glenn-Senn Cemetery located on Glenn Road off of Fish Hatchery Road.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America via check by mail to 322 8th Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001, or online at alzfdn.org/donate.