Richard Stokes

Richard Don Stokes of Visalia passed away Wednesday, March 2 at the age of 76. He spent many years with the California Division of Forestry, working at the Visalia Headquarters. He was a well known country music drummer, having played with numerous bands as well as many well known country stars. He moved to Southern California in the 1970's where he worked in the limousine business for several years.

Richard is survived by his wife of 56 years, Sonya McLain Stokes, sons, Randy of Nashville, TN, Ricky and Rusty of Visalia, daughter Marla and son-in-law Jim Conway of Visalia; grandchildren, Farrah Manthei of San Antonio, TX, Raquel Stokes of Seattle, WA., James and Brandon Conway of San Diego, CA. Also survived by five sisters, Evalena Jacques, Nancy Adams, Bernice Flores, Gloria Easley, and Saundra Berry; brother-in-law and wife, Gary and Ilene McLain along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Services are being held on Tuesday, March 8, 2011, 11:00 a.m. at Miller Memorial Chapel with visitation being held on Monday, March 7th, from 4-7 p.m.

Interment will follow at Visalia District Cemetery.

Condolences may be offered at www.millerchapel.com under direction of Miller Memorial.