Richard Garcia, age 91 of Fairmont and formerly of Mannington, WV passed away Wednesday, July 19, 2023 at the West Virginia Veterans Nursing Facility in Clarksburg. He was born September 23, 1931 in Moundsville, WV. He was married to the late Patricia Smith Garcia who died August 7, 2005. Richard was also preceded in death by his parents Jesse and Lillian Garcia, his brothers Jesse Garcia and Bob Garcia, his sister Mary Lou Garcia, and a granddaughter Amanda Latusek.
He is survived by his children Donna (and the late Ted) Latusek of Freeport, FL, Rick Garcia (significant other Vickie Kisner) of Fairmont, WV, Sharon (Jim) Wade of Fairview, WV, and Lori (Mike) Bish of Fayetteville, NC, five grandchildren, Jennifer Latusek-Nabholz, Melissa Garcia-Webb, Lorenzo Garcia, Bryan Garcia and Allison Bish, and three great-grandchildren, Isabel Garcia, Logan Nabholz and Josiah Nabholz. He is also survived by his sister Carmen Hays of Whetstone, WV and extended family Sissie (Johnny) Johnson, Mercedes Powenski, Matthew Porter, Damian Guthrie, Zaclynn Hager and Waylon Hager
Richard graduated from Mannington High School, Fairmont State College and then West Virginia University to obtain his Masters Degree. He was a United States Navy Veteran having served his country during the Korean War. He was a teacher and coach at Farmington High School until he became a full-time representative with World Book Inc. having retired in 1993 as Regional Manager. He continued working having owned a gas station and later conducting surveys across the state. He was a member of the United Methodist Church in Mannington.
During his lifetime, Richard enjoyed various activities and volunteer positions including being a Mannington Little League coach/manager for 41 years, a charter president for Mannington Jaycees, president of both Mannington and North Marion High School band boosters, and Idamay Methodist Men president. He coached girls’ softball in 1994 and was active with Mannington Pop Warner football program. Richard also served as Mannington Mayor, Commission, Councilman and Supervisor for Mannington Parks and Recreation. He also volunteered with Tutor Adult Learning Center where each evening he would spend time reading to the blind.
Family and friends may call at Masters Funeral Home in Mannington, WV on Saturday, July 22, 2023 from 6-9:00pm. Funeral services will be held in the funeral home on Sunday, July 23, 2023 beginning at 1:00pm with Mike Hays officiating. Full Military Rites will be accorded immediately following services in the funeral home parking lot by the United States Navy and the Marion County Veterans Council. Interment will follow at the Whetstone Cemetery.
Condolences
So very sorry to hear of the passing of Richard. We were privileged to have known RIchard for many decades. He was involved in so much in service to his family, his community, and his country. Richard will be missed by so many. Our thoughts and prayers have been with the family.
Rick and family
Sorry for your loss.
Betty Earl & family
A personal friend and a great neighbor. The family lived across the street from us on Furbee Avenue and were excellent neighbors. RIP Richard. My condolences to the family.