Final Salute

Born in Cumberland, Maryland, and raised in Green Spring, Cmdr. Richard L. Foley, USN, Retired, of Gerrardstown, died April 30, 2017, at the age of 93.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Helen, of 63 years; his two sons, David (son, John), of Ashburn, Virginia and Michael (wife, Kathy), of Winchester, Virginia and their daughters, Lisa (husband, DJ Gano, their daughters, Olivia and Madelyn) of Carrollton, Virginia, Jessica (son, Bradley) and Julia; and his daughter, Linda (husband, Randy Heavner) with their children Ross and Tiffany (husband, Derek King, their sons and Pap’s pride and joy, Dylan and Jackson) all of Gerrardstown. He also loved and was loved by his many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Nellie Foley; sister, Margie and husband, Ira Hott; brother, Ray and wife, Peggy; niece, Judy McKenery; and daughter-in-law, Rhonda Foley.

Cmdr. Foley graduated from West Virginia University (BSEE) and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (BCE). He was both a civil and electrical engineer with a Professional Engineering License from the State of New York. He made a huge difference in this world and in all who knew him.

He served during three wars, including two tours in Vietnam as commanding officer of Seabee Battalion MCB3. He was also the commanding officer of the “Ghost Battalion” tasked with building a top secret airfield at Quang Tri. Even under fire, he and his men completed their mission in just 38 days (nine days earlier than scheduled). He received two Legion of Merit Awards for his outstanding leadership and service.

Since his retirement on Nov. 1, 1971, he was fortunate to be able to do the things he loved – farming and spending time with his family. We were blessed to have him full-time in our lives teaching us valuable lessons about life, finances, construction, farming and always having him available to impart wisdom and advice.

Visitors will be received from 5 to 8 p.m. May 19, 2017, at Bunker Hill United Methodist Church.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 3 p.m. May 20, 2017, at Bunker Hill United Methodist Church.

Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery with full honors at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Bunker Hill United Methodist Church, 9863 Winchester Ave. (P.O. Box 327), Bunker Hill, WV 25413.

Arrangements are by Brown Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be offered at www.BrownFu neralHomesWV.com.