Eric "Rick" Guy Planton

Eric Guy “Rick” Planton, 70, of Gastonia went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday March 31, 2023 after an extended illness. Rick died at home under the Care of Gaston Hospice. Rick was born March 24, 1953 in Pensacola, Florida. Rick attended schools in South Carolina, New Jersey and Virginia. He was a Survey Party Chief and he was highly respected in his trade for his dedication. He was an avid Lacrosse player and Carolina Panthers Fan. Rick was an award-winning modeler and several of his works were placed on display in hobby stores due to their quality workmanship. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. All that knew and loved him will dearly miss Rick.

Rick is the son of the late Norma “Vonnie” (Reid) Planton and David Nash Planton. Also preceding Rick in death are his sister, Jan O’Neil and a step-grandson, Thomas Smoot.

Left to cherish their memories of Rick and to carry on his legacy are his wife, Sharon Planton, of the home and two sons; Aaron Planton and his wife Stephanie and their son Gunner and step-son, Vincent, all of Dallas, North Carolina, Jason Planton and his son, Miles, of Mount Holly, North Carolina and his step-son, Brian Cobb, of Hickory, North Carolina. Grieving the loss of their brother are his sister, Pam Schwacke and her husband, Buddy, of Pawley Island, South Carolina and his brother, Phil Planton and his wife Kathie of Charleston, South Carolina.

Family and friends are invited to a service celebrating Rick’s life at 1:00 PM on Monday April 3, 2023 at Carothers Funeral Home, 2205 Williamsburg Drive in Gastonia. The family will receive friends one hour before the service beginning at 12:00 noon at the funeral home. Burial will follow the celebration of life service in The Hillside Garden of Gaston Memorial Park. Reverend Roger Overton will officiate offering words of hope and comfort to family and friends that gather to remember Rick.

Fond memories of Rick and condolences for the family may be left at www.carothersfuneralhomegastonia.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be made in Rick’s name to The Gastonia Salvation Army, 1506 Union Road, Gastonia, NC 28054.

The staff of Carothers Funeral Home at Gaston Memorial Park is honored to serve the Planton Family.