Richard Leonard Porter

With a heavy heart, we announce the passing of our father, Rick Porter, at the age of 68 on November 8th, 2023. Rick was a simple man with a soft heart, a warm smile, and a fondness for diet cokes. He loved his family with everything he had, and they returned that love tenfold.

Our father was born on September 19th, 1955, to the late Thomas and Freda Mae Porter (whom we all loved dearly) in Logan, West Virginia. By 17, he joined the Navy, reaching the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer. While in the Navy, he had many accomplishments, but the most notable was meeting my mother, Elizabeth Zebrak. They found each other in Norfolk, VA, at the military A school. My mom needed a ride to the beach, and my Dad was lucky enough to have a car and nothing but time on his hands.

Forty-one years later, he left a legacy of compassion, love, and authenticity. We are all better off for knowing him and grateful for him showing us that being kind is a strength and that you are never too old to be a kid. Our Dad was such a wonderful man.

Rick is survived by his wife, Beth, and their three children, Eddie and his wife, Julia; Rick and his wife, Jen; Mary and her husband, Steve; and a gaggle of adoring grandchildren: Ava, Theo, Eli, Lizzie, Loulou, and Tori. He is also survived by his sisters, Beverly and Anissa, big brother Tommy, and their incredible children and grandchildren.