Richard Austin Makepeace, Sr., passed away in Nassawadox, Virginia on February 16, 2016, with his daughter, Helen, by his side. Richard was born in Sanford, NC to Harold Turner Makepeace and Helen Sherrill Makepeace on July 22, 1935. In his youth, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout and gained a love for tennis. Richard graduated from Fishburne Military Academy in Waynesboro, Virginia and attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Richard’s great passion for playing tennis led him to capture numerous titles both locally and nationally. Whether singles, doubles, or father /son tournaments, he was a fierce, left-handed competitor. If asked, he would tell you he truly enjoyed the father/son tournaments the most, which gave him the opportunity to play with all three of his sons.
While Richard’s professional career took him to several different cities, he truly loved his time spent in Richmond, Virginia and Cashiers, North Carolina, with his faithful, canine companion, Lucky.
Christmas time was such a special time for Richard as he spent it each year traveling to three different states to visit his grandchildren. He made each one feel special and they, in turn, would make Richard’s heart full.
Richard was proceeded in death by his eldest son, Richard Austin Makepeace, Jr. He is survived by his sons Charles Walton Makepeace (Lisa) and David Sherrill Makepeace (Lee); and his daughter, Helen Finley Pruitt (Guy); grandchildren Henry Makepeace (Mackenzie), Andrew and William Makepeace; Austin, Chandler and Daniel Makepeace; Turner and Hannah Makepeace; Landon and Olsen Pruitt.
The family would like to thank Heritage Hall and Intrepid Hospice in Nassawadox, Virginia and especially the nurses and CNA’s in the Eden Garden for the excellent care and love Richard received over the past couple of years.
The family will celebrate Richard’s life at a private ceremony and he will be laid to rest in the family plot in Sanford, North Carolina. Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or the charity of one’s choice
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Published in The News & Observer on Feb. 21, 2016