William Richard Cheatham

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, William Richard Cheatham, 89, of Spout Spring, VA. He passed peacefully at his home on Thursday, June 4, 2026. He was preceded in death by his wife of 63 years, Frances Murden Cheatham.

Born in Appomattox, VA, on June 11, 1936, he was the son of the late Frances Miles and William “Billy” Wingfield Cheatham. Richard lived a life defined by faith, service, hard work, and devotion to his family. He proudly served his country as a veteran of the United States Army carrying the values of duty and honor throughout his life. Building a long and respected career with C&P telephone company. He took pride in providing for his family and serving his community. A faithful member of Reedy Spring Church, where he served for many years as a deacon. His unwavering faith guided his life. Outside of work and church, he found great joy in the outdoors. Whether it was the sounds of the woods while hunting with Reedy Creek Hunting Club or casting a line off the Nags Head Pier with his family. He cherished God's creation.

Above all else, Richard was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, and great grandfather. Nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his children and grandchildren, sharing stories, wisdom, laughter, and unconditional love. His legacy lives on through the values he instilled in those who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his loving children, Ray Cheatham and wife, Debbie of Spout Spring, and Vicky C. Phelps and husband, Richard “Jr.” of Gladstone; one daughter-in-law, Susan Scott and husband, Todd; six grandchildren, Hunter and Lauren Cheatham, Ashley and Logan Stevens, Krystan and Raymond Harris, Michelle and Andrew Oler, Dylan and Colby Cheatham, and Emily Cheatham; eleven great-grandchildren, Dallas Harris, Lauryn Harris, Hallie Harris, Emersyn Harris, Aftyn Harris, Aubrey Oler, James Oler, Silas Cheatham, Oliver Stevens, Casey Cheatham, Luke Cheatham; three brothers and sisters-in-law, Thacker and Marie Cheatham, Ralph and Shirley Cheatham, and H.T. and Delores Cheatham; two sisters, Joyce Sayre, and Peggy and Billy Moore; three sisters-in-law, Sarah Cheatham, Jackie Schropp, and Juanita Cheatham; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by one son, Robert Stuart Cheatham; four brothers, Roy Cheatham, James Cheatham, Robert Cheatham and his wife, Dolores, and Marshall Cheatham; two sisters, Jean New and her husband, Richard and Susie Nuckles and her husband, Haywood; and a brother-in-law, Larry Sayre.

A funeral will be held at 11 am, on Saturday June 6, 2026, at Reedy Spring Baptist Church, officiated by Pastor Dan Davis. Burial will follow in Reedy Spring Baptist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends following the service at the church and other times at the residence.

Memorial donations may be made to Reedy Springs Building Fund, 1315 Reedy Spring Rd., Spout Spring, VA 24593.

The family would like to give a special thanks to Cheryl Mullins for her loving care and concern for Richard.

Robinson Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family. An online condolence may be sent by visiting www.robinsonfuneral.com.