Richard Lee Van Gilder

Mr. Richard Lee Van Gilder passed away on Thursday, April 30, 2026, at the age of 87. Richard was born on October 22, 1938, in Morgantown, West Virginia, to the late Lawrence and Arlene Van Gilder. He lived a full life, rooted in love for family, community, and his passions.

A proud veteran of the United States Air Force, Richard served from 1956 to 1962. He was a dedicated steelworker/welder at Atlantic Steel for over 20 years. He was known for his incredible skills and the saying, "If Richard can't fix it, nobody can." He was an avid car enthusiast and loved to see how things worked.

He served faithfully at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church and lived out his love for the Lord every day. He wanted everyone to know Jesus. He loved his family immensely, especially his wife, Sandra "Fernie" Van Gilder. They would have celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary on the day he passed, a testament to their enduring love.

Along with his parents, Richard is preceded in death by his wife, Sandra "Fernie" Van Gilder.

He is survived by his beloved daughter, Rebekah (James) Downing; son, Richard "Pete" (Dawn) Van Gilder, II; brothers, William (Doris) Van Gilder and James (Polly) Van Gilder; grandchildren Alexis (Brett) Phelps, Richard "Lee" (Heather) Van Gilder, III, Jacob Van Gilder, and Sydney (Pete) Whittingslow; and great-grandchildren, including Lily Phelps, Alicia Phelps, Zoey Van Gilder, Phoebe Van Gilder, Campbell Whittingslow, Kinley Van Gilder, Lanier Whittingslow, Nora Van Gilder, and Walker Whittingslow.

Richard will be dearly missed as the best father and husband anyone could ask for.

Visitation for Richard will be on Sunday, May 3, 2026, from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM at Clark Funeral Home. A funeral service will take place at 4:00 PM in the Sam Clark Chapel. Richard will be laid to rest at the Georgia National Cemetery on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Richard to the National Alzheimer's organization, St. Jude, Toys for Tots, or a charity of your choice.

Let's come together to honor Richard's legacy, filled with love, laughter, and countless moments that made life richer. Until we meet again, may he rest in peace.