Richard was born on March 25, 1938, the son of the late Perry and Elizabeth Showalter. He faithfully served for many years as a minister and overseer of the area Mennonite churches. He was a loving husband, a devoted father and grandfather, friend and mentor to many people.
He taught 7th grade math for 30 years, first at Ladd Elementary School and then at Stuarts Draft Middle School. His family operated an apple orchard, selling apples, cider and apple butter. He also kept bees and sold honey.
On August 24, 1963 he married Bertha (Hartzler) Showalter, who survives.
Also surviving are three sons, Brian and wife, Michele and children, Kenda and Lexi; Dean and wife, Maria and children, Morgan, Seth and McKenzie; Gerald and wife, Leah and children, Chad and Jacqueline; six sisters, Glennys Shank of Blountstown, Florida, Wilma Lee Anders of Gordonville, Pennsylvania, Ruth Showalter of Waynesboro, Louise Longenecker of Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania, Goldie Huber of Atmore, Alabama, Doris Ranck of Cumberland, Virginia; and two brothers, Millard Showalter of Harrisonburg and Marvin Showalter of Waynesboro.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 22, 2018 at Springdale Mennonite Church, 107 Hall School Road, Waynesboro.
A service celebrating Richard’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday morning, August 23, 2018 at the church with Pastors Kevin and Denise Goertzen officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, we suggest memorial contributions be made to Love, INC (Love In The Name of Christ), P.O. Box 1003, 123 Tinkling Springs Rd., Fishersville, Virginia 22939 or a charity of your choice.
The family wishes to thank our family, friends and church family for their many, many expressions of love and support.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Waynesboro Chapel of Reynolds Hamrick Funeral Homes.
Relatives and friends may share condolences and memories online with the family by visiting www.reynoldshamrickfuneralhomes.com.
