White Sulphur Springs
-Richard Allen (Richie) Van Buren, 68, passed away Friday, Dec. 1, 2023, after a short illness.
He was born Jan. 25, 1955, to the late JD and Faye Van Buren.
He was preceded in death by his sister, Melissa Deichert; brothers-in-law, Allen Deichert, Michael Hunt, Danny Lawhorne; and sister-in-law, Wanda Sue Burn.
Friends include lifelong friends David Ridgeway, neighbors Kurt, Patt, Robert, and Shelly as well as many friends from The Greenbrier Hotel and Upholstery shop. Richard retired in 2021 after 48 faithful years at The Greenbrier Hotel.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Audrey Van Buren of White Sulphur Springs; son, Keith Allen and wife Marybeth Broyles Van Buren of Lindside; two granddaughters, Madison Van Buren of Lindside and O’Shea Boone of Rainelle; grandson, Donovan Allen Van Buren of White Sulphur Springs. He is also survived by two brothers, Glen and wife Erica Van Buren and John Van Buren of White Sulphur Springs; brothers- and sisters-in-law, Hallie Lawhorne of Covington VA, Brenda Hunt of Ronceverte, Helen Burns, Grover and Judy Burns, Julian Burns, Darlene and Rob Teal, Lynn Lingerman, and Lisa and Tony Taylor all of White Sulphur Springs.
Per his wishes, he was cremated, and a memorial service was held on Thursday, Dec. 7, at Whatcoat United Methodist Church on Route 92. Visitation was held prior to the service where Rev. Buck Caldwell officiated.
The Family would like to give a special thanks to Shawna Crow of Hospice Care for her loving care and dedication to Richard during his hardest times. Also, a very special thanks to Donovan Van Buren for the love and care he gave to his grandpa during his time of need in the past few months. Donovan stepped out of his way to move into his grandparent’s home to take care of both his grandmother and grandfather in their times of need.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Whatcoat United Methodist Church Youth, P.O. Box 416, White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia 24986.
Wallace & Wallace Funeral Home in White Sulphur Springs is in charge of arrangements. Please send online condolences by visiting www.WallaceandWallaceFH.com.
