Richard Harrison Rothrock

On February 5, 2025, Richard Harrison Rothrock, 91, left this earthly life to be with the Lord. You may have known him as Richard, dad, papaw, fig daddy, or as your friend. 

His Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at George Brothers Funeral Service at 2:00 pm followed by a time of visitation with the family.

Richard was born on August 27, 1933 in Greensboro, NC to the late Emory Cornelius and Elizabeth Mitchell Rothrock. He was the middle child of three boys: Jack Rothrock and the late Donald Rothrock. He was a lifelong member of Centenary United Methodist Church. He attended Greensboro Senior High School where he met his wife, Shirley Summers Rothrock, and they were married for 60 years before she passed away in 2013. Together they had three children. 

Richard was known for his ability to sing, his biggest hit was ‘When the Red Red Robin (Comes Bob, Bob, Bobbin’ Along)’ also made famous by Al Jolson. He was a lifelong fan of Duke basketball, never missing a game. He never met a dog he didn’t like and was always willing to share his food with them, he is what we called their meal ticket. Richard loved playing Rook, but hated to lose and enjoyed a day playing golf. At home he loved to play gin rummy with his wife for a penny a point and always loved spending time with his family and friends. He was always grateful and never missed a chance to say please and thank you especially when Oatmeal Cream Pies, Fig Newtons, or a hot cup of coffee was involved. 

Richard had an extremely kind heart and was the funniest person you would ever meet. His dry sense of humor and infectious smile will live in our hearts forever. Richard’s charismatic personality is what made him a successful salesman for most of his working career. As a result of his dementia, there were many things he forgot over the years, however he never forgot his family and those who cared for him.

Richard is survived by his three children: Dennis Harrison Rothrock, Jennifer Rothrock Metcalfe and husband Clay, and Amy Rothrock Cardwell and husband John. His seven grandchildren; Amanda Cribbet (Sean) and Rebecca Rothrock, Emory Oom (David) and Molly Metcalfe (Jordan), Will (Cassidy), Mason, and Sarah Cardwell, and one great grandson Dylan Garcia. Along with his older brother Jack Rothrock and a multitude of nieces and nephews.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Wellington Oaks, his caregivers, the nurses at Beacon Place, and their chaplain John Connor who became Richard’s good friend, all of whom made his last days peaceful and full of love. 

In lieu of flowers Richard asked that any memorial contributions would be made to the Hart 2 Heart Animal Rescue.  https://www.hart2heartanimalrescue.com/

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