Richard Clifton Townsend

Mr. Richard Clifton Townsend, 82, of the George Hildebran community, finally made it home on Sunday, July 20, 2025.

Richard was born on June 18, 1943, in Burke County to the late Clifton Townsend and Trivie Young Townsend. He was a retired telephone technician for Centel Telecommunications and was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Richard never met a stranger and will be remembered for his big smile, generosity and hard work ethic. He enjoyed motorcycle trips, country western music and relaxing on the front porch in his rocking chair.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one sister, Betty Lail, and two brothers, Billy Townsend and Wray Townsend.

Survivors include his three daughters, Julie Davis and husband Mike of Rutherford College, Jeanne Townsend of the George Hildebran community, and Janice Townsend and husband Adam Groth of Oahu HI, four grandchildren, Lauren Thompson, Landon Thompson, Jordan Donnelly and Michael Donnelly, and one great-grandson, Callaway Donnelly. Also surviving is a brother, Bob Townsend and wife Bonnie, two sisters, Nellie “Sis” Lewis and husband Dan, Judy Owensby and husband Andy, and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends on Thursday, from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M at Heritage Funeral Service in Valdese, with a private graveside to follow at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Carolina Caring, 3975 Robinson Rd., Newton, NC 28658.

An online guestbook and obituary is available at www.heritagefuneralservices.com

Heritage Funeral Service & Crematory of Valdese is assisting the Townsend family.