ROAN MOUNTAIN, Tenn. — Richard, 73, was unexpectedly called home to be with his maker on December 16, 2014 while recovering from surgery at the Johnson City Medical Center.
Mr. Winters started his career as a Marine, serving in Force Reconnaissance with deployments in Cuba and various parts of South and Central America. His service in the military fostered a lifelong enjoyment of the outdoors and shooting sports which he enjoyed avidly throughout his life. He remained staunchly patriotic and a loyal Marine until his death.
Upon return to civilian life, Mr. Winters earned a bachelor’s degree and two graduate degrees from East Tennessee State University and began a career as an education professional. During his tenure with the Carter County School System, Mr. Winters served in various schools as a teacher, assistant principal, principal and supervisor. He was most proud of his time representing the schools of Hampton and Cloudand as a principal. Being a teacher at heart, he remained active as an instructor teaching Sunday School and Bible School classes while serving as an Elder at Lower Shell Creek Christian Church. He had been a member of the Lower Shell Creek Church all of his adult life, although he served many years as a teacher at Newland Christian Church.
Mr. Winters was active in local politics and served approximately 40 years in the offices of County Commissioner and School Board Representative. He was active in various community projects associated with the school system and the education of children. Mr. Winters lent his talents to numerous projects within the county that he felt would improve the quality of life in what he deemed the most beautiful place on Earth.
Richard is survived by his father, Dan Winters, who resides at Roan Highlands Nursing Center; his wife of 52 years, Norma Lee Perry Winters, of the home; his sister, Janet Potter, and husband Steve, who reside in Valley Forge; his son, Daniel Keith Winters, and wife Dawn of Roan Mountain; and his daughter, Jennifer Street, and husband Henry of Roan Mountain. Richard was most fond of his grandchildren, Nichole Jenkins and husband Thomas of Valley Forge, Richie Winters and Daniel George Winters of Roan Mountain; and his beloved great-grandchild, McKinlee Jenkins, who is the daughter of Nicole and Thomas.
Services for Mr. Winters will take place Sunday, December 21, at the Lower Shell Creek Christian Church. The receiving of friends will begin at 1 p.m. with the funeral beginning at 2 p.m. A graveside service will occur at the Winters’ family cemetery immediately following the funeral. Military Honors will be accorded by the Carter County Honor Guard. Speakers for the services will include Gary Whitehead, Chris Wilson and Gerald Holly. Friends may also visit with the family at the home of Jennifer and Henry Street, located on 265 Winters Road in Roan Mountain. Flowers may also be sent to this address. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Lower Shell Creek Christian Church in care of Donnie Morgan. Active pallbearers are Thomas Jenkins, Jake Jenkins, Wade Calhoun, Tim Calhoun, Richie Winters and Daniel George Winters. Honorary pallbearers are fellow elders Donnie Morgan, Lee McCoury and the men of the church along with Steve Potter, Glenn Mopin, Raymond Hill, Eddie Roark and Tommy Jenkins. The Winters family would like to thank Dr. Joseph Lee, the ICU staff and the JCMC staff for the excellent care and kindness they provided Richard during his hospitalization. We would also like to especially thank Greg Coley, the JCMC Chaplin, who comforted us through our time of struggle. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.tetrickfuneralhome.com and signing the guest book.
Tetrick Funeral Home, Elizabethton, is serving the Winters family. Office: (423) 542-2232. Obituary Line: (423) 543-4917.