Richard G. Young

With a desire to serve in the military, he entered the United State Air Force and was sworn into duty on Jan 20th, 1948. His years of service in the armed forces allowed him to live in many places including Labrador, Newfoundland, Greenland, Germany and Spain, but it was in England where he was stationed in 1951 that he met future wife, Kathleen Todd, whom he wed on May 11, 1952. To this union four children were born: Gary (Debbie), Gail (George) Fricks, Rick (Tracy Barfield) and Robert (Marla). After a stint at the pentagon, Richard retired from the United States Air Force on Feb 1, 1968 after 20 years of service.

Richard felt led to continue his life of service this time, as a minister. He enrolled in Columbia Bible College. While a student, both he and Kathy worked various jobs to pay his way through school. He served as a Pastor for churches in Georgia, South Carolina, Illinois and Florida. During his tenure in Illinois, he obtained a PHD in theology which helped lay the groundwork for a new chapter as he later worked as a counselor for the South Carolina Department of Corrections.

After years of serving and living in many places, his 'last mailing address' as he liked to put it, was at Wellmore assisted living, where he enjoyed his last few years and maintained his independence. The family would like to extend their appreciation to the Wellmore staff for their attentiveness and care of ‘Pastor Young.’

Private military graveside services with full military rights will be conducted at Fort Jackson National Cemetery in Columbia, SC on Friday Nov 1, 2024.

In addition to his sons, he is survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; infant brother, Russel George, Jr.; wife, Kathleen; daughter, Gail Fricks; and daughter-in-law, Amy Young (Robert).

Memorials may be submitted in the form of donations to the Hidalgo Independent Christian Church, PO Box 105, Hidalgo, IL 62432.