Richard Gordon Wilmoth

After growing up a country boy, he went on to earn a B.S. degree in Engineering Science from Tennessee Technological University. He then completed a M.S. degree in Aerospace Engineering and a Ph.D. in Engineering Physics from the University of Virginia. His family “muchly” commended him for all of his achievements.

Richard moved to Virginia where he epitomized the notion of a Virginia gentleman. He was employed as a Senior Research Scientist at NASA LaRC in Hampton, VA, for 41 years, where his work influenced next generation flight technologies including the space shuttle and the Mars orbiter. As he entered retirement, he worked for fun as a Principal Research Scientist at Combustion Research and Flow Technology in Pipersville, PA, for 9 years. He was admired by his children for teaching them many skills, coaching their Little League Baseball team, and pushing them to be curious about life. Most affectionately, they knew him as Dad, the rocket scientist.

He was a member of Denbigh Presbyterian Church in N.N. for many years where he served as Treasurer and Deacon. He was then a member of Hidenwood Presbyterian Church in N.N. where he happily served two terms as a Deacon and as an IT consultant.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Edna Joyce Wilmoth Moles. Richard is survived by his wife of 58 years, Susan Davis Wilmoth of Williamsburg, VA; their sons John Gordon Wilmoth and his wife Renee of Franklin, MA, and William Fount Wilmoth and his wife Megan of East Greenbush, NY; brother Guy Edward Wilmoth and his wife Marsha of Cookeville, TN; grandchildren Riley and Anthony of Franklin, MA, Wade and Lucy of East Greenbush, NY, Madison Langwell and her husband Matthew of East Greenwich, RI, and Harrison of Franklin, MA; nephew, Mark Edward Wilmoth of Cookeville, TN; niece, Michelle Renae Taylor and her husband Robert of Smithville, TN.

A graveside service will be held at the Algood Cemetery at a later date as well as a gathering of friends in the greater Williamsburg area.