Richard "Rick" Allen Gillenwater

Richard “Rick” Allen Gillenwater, 73, of Luray, went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, while surrounded by his family and loved ones. 

He was born on July 30, 1951, in Murphy, NC, and was the son of the late Roy and Frankie White Gillenwater.

On August 13, 1994, he married Theresa Ann Richards Gillenwater, who survives.

Rick knew the value of hard work and providing for his family. From contracting work with Wells and West, to maintenance and mechanic work at Wrangler, and finally nursing at Page Memorial Hospital, Rick worked his entire life until he became sick.

But more importantly, Rick knew the greater value of his family and friends. In addition to spending time with people he loved, he enjoyed hunting, fishing, gardening, reading, cooking, and woodworking. He was fond of teaching his wife, daughters, sons, daughters-in-law, sons-in-law, and even his grandchildren how to do many of these things. 

Surviving in addition to his wife are three daughters, Misty Ann Bowen and husband Charles of Clarksville, GA, Melinda Brooke Gillenwater of Hayesville, NC, and Felicia Haddock and husband Joey of Luray; two sons, A.J. Good and wife Megan, and Trey Gillenwater and wife Bryanna, all of Luray; two sisters, Patricia Tathum and Betty Jenkins, both of North Carolina, and 11 grandchildren, Harrison, Bailey, Molly, Ayden, Cayden, Bryce, Ida Ann, Brody, Benton, Dawson, and Graham. He was preceded in death by two sisters, Phyllis Gillenwater and Judy Gillenwater; and a brother, Roy Lee "JR" Gillenwater.

A funeral service will be conducted at 11 a.m. on Saturday, December 14, at Mount Carmel Regular Baptist Church by Pastor Jack Haddock, with visitation one hour prior to the service, from 10-11 a.m.

Rick loved giving back to his community, helping those in need, especially at Christmastime, and paying it forward. 

Memorial contributions may be made to a local charity of your choice or in lieu of a contribution, help a family in need for Christmas or pay it forward whenever you can. 

May your acts of generosity and kindness pass on Rick’s memory. He will be deeply missed, but never forgotten. 

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.