Richard K. King

Richard Kent King passed away peacefully on February 8, 2026, at the age of 75, following a courageous and hard-fought battle with cancer. Known to most throughout North Carolina simply as “Kent,” he was the first born to Durwood Lee King and Cleone Bowden King on November 2, 1950, in Mount Olive, North Carolina.

Richard was a proud graduate of Southern Wayne Senior High School, Class of 1969. Shortly thereafter, he began a distinguished career in the United States Air Force, serving honorably for 23 years, where he earned numerous awards and commendations for his dedication and service including a Meritorious Service Medal with two oak leaf clusters, signifying his consistent, long-term record of exceptional service. His service took him to Hawaii, Washington D. C. (Pentagon), Florida, and abroad to Greece where he spent 16 years and became fluent in Greek (spoken, of course, with his unmistakable North Carolina accent). Throughout his military career, he reflected the same quiet strength, steadfast reliability, and integrity that defined his life.

Though he left the family farm in North Carolina, Richard never lost his love for farming. That passion found new life years later through online farming on Farmville, where he delighted in cultivating impressive gardens and caring for an abundance of virtual creatures—a hobby that brought him genuine joy. He could often be seen enjoying Mount Olive Sweet Gherkins as he played. In the real world, he was an exceptional cook, famously known for making some of the best spaghetti around and always ensuring there was enough to share.

Richard had a tender heart, especially for animals. A devoted animal lover, he had a particular fondness for cats, dogs, squirrels, and groundhogs, and he never passed by a creature without kindness. Friends and family will fondly remember that he almost always had mint candies tucked away in his pocket, ready to offer with a smile.

Above all else, Richard loved his family and neighbors deeply. He was always happy to lend a hand by shoveling the driveway, mowing the lawn, or loaning tools to those who needed them. His greatest joy was his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, whom he cherished with a gentle patience, warmth, and compassion that only a grandfather can give. His presence was steady, comforting, and full of love.

The family would like to thank all of the doctors, nurses and staff (especially nurses Erica and Bailey) at The James Cancer Center on the campus of The Ohio State University for their dedication, compassion, and unwavering support during Richard’s final months.

Richard will be profoundly missed by his beloved wife of 32½ years, Lois Selders King; his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren; his siblings; and the many extended family members and friends whose lives he touched.

Richard will be laid to rest with military funeral honors at Flint Cemetery in Worthington, Ohio. A graveside service, overlooking the Veterans Garden, will be held at 11am on Friday, February 13th, 2026.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Richard’s honor to Colony Cats (2740 Festival Lane Dublin, OH 43017; https://colonycats.org/). Condolences may be shared with the family at www.newcomercolumbus.com.