Richard Carson Whiting, 85, of Rock Hill, South Carolina, peacefully passed away Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at his home.
Born December 19, 1940, in Marlinton, Richard lived a life shaped by family, service, hard work and a lifetime of experiences that reflected his character and the things he valued most.
Richard proudly served his country in the United States Army. His military service remained an important part of his life. He maintained a lifelong involvement in several military and sporting organizations. After his retirement from the National Rifle Association, he spent years coaching and participating in the Junior Marksmanship Program in West Virginia. He loved his time at Camp Perry where he coached his young shooters in different events.
Richard’s life was not defined by one title or one chapter. He was a hardworking and thoughtful man who loved his family and his church. His family will carry forward the memories of life on the farm, the lessons he taught them, along with the many stories that made him who he was.
Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 57 years, Vivian Louise Whiting; his father, Harry Johnson Whiting; his mother, Grace Nevada Whiting Spencer; brother, Harlen Whiting; sister-in-law, Jean Whiting; and brother-in-law, Herb Swoope.
He will be lovingly remembered by his children, Richard Carson Whiting II (Madonna), Daria MaDonna Robey (Mike), Jason Eric Whiting (Michelle), and Cynthia Ann Long (Ric); grandchildren, Sherri Jeanine Watkins (DJ), Donald Lee Grimes III (Crystal), Donna Marie Grimes, Richard Carson Whiting III, Cole Patrick Whiting, Aaron William Long, Ryan Patrick Long, Christopher Eric Whiting and Michael Keith Baldwin (Susan); and seven great-grandchildren, Kylie Grace Watkins, Morgan Paige Watkins, Lillian Renee Grimes, Mackenzie Grace Grimes, Michael Keith Baldwin Jr., Chase Tallen Baldwin and Luke Tucker Baldwin; brothers, Larry Whiting and Harry Whiting (Deborah); sisters, Judy Swoope, Francis Whiting Stewart and Gayle Spencer; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service was held September 28, 2026, at Bass-Cauthen Funeral Home in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Richard’s memory to make a donation to Wayside Southern Baptist Church 539 Brushy Fork Rd Buckhannon, WV 26201.
