Melva C. Rikard went to be with her Heavenly Father on Sunday April 10, 2022. A native of Gaston County, she was daughter of the late Martha C. and S.L. Cherry. She was preceded in death by her husband of 27 years Jerry D. Rikard.
Survivors include one son Michael D. Rikard (Barbara) (Katy and Sean) of Belmont, four daughters Martha K. Auten (Jerry) of Flag Pond, TN, Millie Weathers (Randy) of Mount Holly, Teresa Connell (James) of Stanley, and Jerri Barnett of Mount Holly. Six grandsons Zachery Auten (Jessie) (Molly and Colt), Taylor Hager (Jana), Jeremy Sigmon, Le Connell (Riley), John Connell (Sarah), and Dylan Rikard. Four granddaughters Stephanie Dyer (Richard), Amy Kirkland, Ashley Keith (Dennie) and Savannah Cunningham (Colton). Ten great grandchildren Madison Crenshaw (Trey), Brailee Cross, Nola Jane Connell, Ella Grace Dyer, Emma Kate Dyer, Lilith Santeigo, Macie Ryan Hager, Finliegh Cunningham and Colbi Cunningham (Due November). One great grandson Lucas L. Hager. One great great granddaughter Charlie Paige Crenshaw. A brother Vernon Cherry of Mount Holly, 2 sisters Sarah Stone (Dennis) of Winder, GA, and Ellen Montgomery of Asheboro, NC.
A celebration of Mrs. Rikard's life will be held 11:00am Friday April 15, 2022 at Community Pentecostal Church in Stanley. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. A graveside service will follow at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery in Mount Holly.
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