Richard Witherspoon departed this earthly life on Saturday, August 1, 2020 at Forsyth Medical Center. He was born to Tom N. Witherspoon Sr. and Kathleen J. Witherspoon Hearn on June 1, 1932 and was a native of Salisbury, North Carolina.  Richard is survived by his wife of 50 years, Louise Witherspoon.

Richard was educated in the Salisbury City Schools and later went on to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. After military service, he moved to Winston-Salem, NC where he was employed by R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company until he retired. He was a member of St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church, where he served on the Usher's Ministry until his health declined. He was always willing to help other people.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Tom N. Witherspoon, Jr.; and step-children, Sandra Penn and Joe L. Melton

He is survived by his wife; his daughters; Sharon A. Shields and Patsy (Farley) Foskey; step-daughters, Virginia Melton and Marilyn Powell;  eleven grandchildren, twenty-two great grandchildren, six great, great grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and neighbors.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Thursday, August 6, 2020 at Russell Funeral Home.

Private funeral services will be held Friday, August 7, 2020.  Interment will follow in Parklawn Memorial Park.