Richard Lee Young

September 28, 1945 – July 26, 2025

Richard Lee Young, a beloved father, brother, and serviceman, passed away peacefully on July 26, 2025, in Salem, Oregon, at the age of 79.

Born in Lost Creek, West Virginia, to Richard Bryan Young and Susan Mary Windon, Richard embarked on a path beyond the local coal mines, studying at West Virginia University before enlisting in the U.S. Navy serving two tours in Vietnam as a Construction Mechanic 2nd Class Petty Officer with the distinguished SeaBees. His exemplary service was recognized with numerous honors, including the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and twice receiving the Expert Rifleman Medal.

Following his military service, inspired by President Lyndon B. Johnson’s call to public service, Richard moved to Washington, D.C., where he worked briefly at the FBI as a fingerprint technician. It was there that he met the love of his life, Linda Pierce. Together, they built a life, returning to Linda’s hometown of Terre Haute, Indiana, where they lovingly raised their daughter, Amy. Richard dedicated 30 years to Eli Lilly as a shift supervisor before his well-deserved retirement. He and Linda shared a passion for travel, enjoying many adventures in their camper, and later established a warm winter home in Sebring, Florida, surrounded by a cherished community of friends.

After Linda’s passing in 2016, Richard moved his winters to Salem, Oregon, to be closer to his daughter, Amy Young-Leith, her husband, Scot Leith, and his adored grandpuppies, Jackson and Solo. Richard will be remembered for his kindness, gentle demeanor, and his lifelong love of exploration.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Janet Young Walker. Richard is survived by his sister, Eleanor Frazier of Nokomis, Florida, and his daughter, Amy Young-Leith of Salem, Oregon.

A graveside memorial service will be held by the family on October 11th at 11:00 AM at Roselawn Cemetery.