Richard Clayton Jarvis Sr.

Richard Clayton Jarvis, Sr., born in 1939, passed away peacefully at the age of 85. A proud graduate of the Virginia Military Institute in 1961, Richard dedicated his life to his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, William and Mary Jarvis, and his sister, Forrest Shelor. He is survived by his devoted wife, Betty Jo Jarvis; his sons, Richard (Rick) Jarvis Jr. and his wife Sarah, and Michael Jarvis; his sister, Mary Carol McAlpin, and her husband Robert; and his cherished grandchildren, Molly Jarvis Wells and her husband Cole, Annie Jarvis, and Maddie Jarvis. He was also survived by his two sisters-in-law Nellie Rice and Barbara Britt. Richard was known by many nicknames to those who loved him, Dick, Rich, Kitchie, Kitch, and Pop. He had a beautiful 61-year marriage to the love of his life and best friend, Betty Jo. They shared a special connection that served as an example of the love, care, and respect that a marriage should be. He was the proudest father and grandfather who was always there for his family. He had a lifelong love for baseball, playing in high school, VMI, and the Army. He found great joy in not only coaching his local little league but also acting as President of Huguenot Little League and helping it to become the organization it is today. As a coach, he was always kind and patient, and ever willing to throw a little more batting practice or hit a few more ground balls, all in the name of helping any willing player improve. He was known for his sense of humor, cracking Dad jokes and puns until the very end. He used humor to lighten the situation and make others comfortable. He loved the camaraderie of his VMI ‘Brother Rats’ throughout the years, especially the breakfast crew at Joe’s Inn. A celebration of Richard's life will be held at 2 p.m. on July 17th at Woody Funeral Home, 1020 Huguenot Road, Midlothian, VA 23113. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy will be remembered by his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched.