Richard Presley

Fletcher, NC ~ Richard Emmitt Presley, 95, of 83 Meadow Pathway Drive, formerly of Beckley, WV, died peacefully with his family surrounding him on Friday, June 5, 2009. He was born in Cordova, Alabama on June 4, 1914 and was the son of the late William Emmitt Presley and Minnie Burt Walker Presley. He was preceded in death by his wife, Phyllis A. Presley in February 2007. Dick was a former member of United Methodist Temple in Beckley, WV and was treasurer of the Men's Fellowship Sunday School class for many years. He was active in the Beckley community and retired from American Electric Power in 1977 after 38 years of service. He was a US Navy Veteran of WW II and served as Yeoman on the ship, USS Santee during the war. He was treasurer of the US Santee Reunion Committee and has remained close to his fellow shipmates through the years. Mr. Presley was a loving and generous father, grandfather and great-grandfather. He is survived by his daughter, Chris P. Lilly and husband Bill of Fletcher, NC; two granddaughters, Amy Sheets and husband Corey of Wilkesboro, NC and Stephani Lilly of Charlotte, NC; two great-granddaughters, Emma Presley Sheets and Hannah Kristine Sheets and a host of nieces and nephews and their families. He loved his family well and was wellloved by all who knew him. A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts in Mr. Presley's honor may be made to Arden Presbyterian Preschool, c/o Barbara Cameron, 2215 Hendersonville Road, Arden, NC 28704. The family would like to give a special thank you to his caregiver, Beatriz Stevens, whose kindness will never be forgotten. In addition, many, many thanks to the staff at Universal Health Care and Four Seasons Palliative and Hospice Care. Groce Funeral Home at Lake Julian on Long Shoals Road is in charge of arrangements.