Thomas Richard Doss

On Monday, November 18, 2019, Thomas Richard Doss, 74, of Gastonia, North Carolina left his earthly home and peacefully transitioned to his heavenly home.   

Richard was born March 25, 1945 in Affinity, West Virginia to Sampson Richard “Johnny” and Hilda Meadows Doss. Besides his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his brother, John Edward Doss.  

Survivors include his wife, Lou Lynne Woodyard Doss and three children: Richanda Jameson and Daniel; Pastor Thomas Richard “Ritchie” Doss II and Angel; and, Rachel Doss. Other children include his daughter, Denise Elaine Haynes and Johnny V. Adams, that he always considered a son.  Other survivors include two sisters, Donna Smith and Stephanie Ward.  He considered his brother-in-laws, Donnie Smith, Jerry Ward, and Larry Woodyard as true brothers. Also surviving are nephews and nieces, Gary and Renee Smith, Dionne Gaskins, Michael Doss, and John Roman.

He was Pappaw to Emma and Abigail Doss, Josh, Jayme, and T.J. Haynes, Emilee Adams, and Jaden Doss who also considered him Dad. He was also great-granddad to 10 children.

Following his graduation from Richwood High School, Richwood, West Virginia, Class of 1963, Richard joined the U.S. Navy and honorably served our Great Country during the Vietnam War Era, earning a unit commendation award with 1 bronze star; National Defense Medal; Vietnam Service Medal with four bronze stars; and the Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal.

After his marriage on September 3, 1971, Richard was the successful owner of several businesses in West Virginia and Gastonia, North Carolina. 

Richard was a born-again Christian and served as a deacon, and in other leadership positions. His greatest love though was leading others to Christ Jesus with his soul winning abilities.

Those who knew Richard can attest to his generosity to family and total strangers.  He loved going to McDonald’s and paying for orders of the car behind him with the message for the cashier to tell the recipient to  “Pay It Backwards!” He would give anyone the shirt off his back.

Richard loved the outdoors where he spent time planting and caring for flowers; playing with his pets; feeding and watching birds; hunting turkey; and, his most favorite – fly fishing.  His indoor hobbies included fly tying; gun smithing; music; dancing and sports.

Richard was also a wonderful caregiver to others, especially during serious illnesses.  He nursed both his wife and mother-in-law, Frances Woodyard, back to health.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, November 21, 2019 at Community Pentecostal Center located on 320 Ralph Handsel Blvd. Stanley, North Carolina  28164 with Pastor Ritchie Doss officiating.

The family will receive friends 11:00 am to 1:00 pm with service following at 1:00 pm.  A full military burial will immediately follow at Gaston Memorial Park, Gastonia, NC 28054.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Adventure In Faith Church, PO Box 218, Alexis, North Carolina  28006.

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