He was born premature and thought stillborn in rural Louisiana. When it was discovered he was breathing, he was placed in a shoebox with a hot water bottle, and fed warm beer from an eyedropper. The tiny infant no bigger than an adult hand, was determined to survive. Somehow, he did and grew into a healthy young man.
He was an Air Force veteran and worked in the postal service.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, William and Dorothy Partain; wife, Betty “Joyce” Partain and son, Keith Partain.
He is survived by his sons, Todd Partain and Kirk Partain; grandchildren, Hannah, Morgan, Alex, Kirklan, Sarah, Jocelyn and Jared. He is also survived by one great-grandchild, Nova-Jean.
His ashes will be spread on a mountain in Arkansas, in a small family ceremony.