Richard Alan Carper, Sr.

Richard Alan Carper Sr., 88 of Bristol, VA passed away on March 24, 2025 after a courageous 2-year battle with Pancreatic cancer.

Richard (Al) was born in 1936 in Hanover, Pennsylvania to Esten and Lillian Carper. He later moved to Northern Virginia. He went to work for the Postal Service in 1962 and retired from the Bristol post office in 1996 after 34 years of dedicated service.

Richard was a devoted family man. He was present at every event or milestone in his children and grandchildren’s lives, even when his health and sight began to decline. He was our person when life got tough, our role model, mentor, biggest supporter, and a skilled driving instructor to 7 kids and a couple grandchildren, but most importantly, our friend. We will always remember his kind spirit and unwavering love.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, E.C. Carper Jr. and Walter Carper; sister, Lois Marbert; and son, Steven Carper.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Joann F. Carper; daughters, Melissa Holland, Mary Lane, and Jennifer Amburgey; sons, Richard Carper Jr., Robert Lane, and Michael Carper; sister, Jeanie Maruszewski; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews. Richard was also survived by two special sons-in-law, Andrew Amburgey and Glenn Holland, who helped tremendously with his care throughout his illness.

He was “Papaw” to several grandchildren and great grandchildren who adored him, and have years of fond memories forever etched in their hearts.

The family would like to thank Dr. Zani and his team at Duke University, NP Sallie Lively and Elite Hospice for the excellent care provided to Richard during his battle.

A Celebration of Life will be held for Richard at Trinity Memorial Center located at 1221 Stewball Circle Kingsport TN 37660 on Saturday April 26, 2025 beginning at 12:00 p.m. Visitation with the family will be from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family would like to suggest donations to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network www.pancan.org or the American Foundation for the Blind www.afb.org

The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to all, for their love, support, and kindness during this difficult time.

Trinity Memorial Centers Funeral Home (423-723-8177) is honored to serve the family, online condolences can be shared with the family on our website at www.trinitymemorialcenters.com.